What is Ducodyl? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Ducodyl overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Leader Women's Laxative, Leader Gentle Laxative, Sunmark Gentle Laxative, Medi-Lax, Good Sense Women's Laxative, Good Sense Bisacodyl Laxative, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Laxative, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Women's Gentle Laxative, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Gentle Laxative, Dulcolax, Fleet Bisacodyl, Gentle Laxative, Alophen, C-Lax, Correctol

Generic Names:

  • Ducodyl

Uses:

  • Treats constipation.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Laxative, Stimulant

Forms:

  • Tablet, Coated Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Ducodyl used for?

Dulcolax is a stimulant laxative used for the relief of constipation. It is also used to empty the bowels before medical procedures such as surgery, x-ray and colonoscopy. It stimulates bowel muscles to quickly empty stool. Dulcolax is indicated for use by adults and children 6 years and older. It is available as a suppository tablet.

What form(s) does Ducodyl come in?

  • Tablet

  • Coated Tablet

What are common Ducodyl dosages?

  • Tablet Delayed Release 5MG

How to take Ducodyl

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or crush it.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew or crush it.

What to do if you miss a dose of Ducodyl

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • Oral routeAsk your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Ducodyl contraindications - Who shouldn't take Ducodyl?

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to bisacodyl.

Ducodyl warnings

  • You may not see results for several hours after you have taken this medicine.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you cannot swallow the tablet without chewing.

  • Stop using this medicine and call your doctor right away if you do not have a bowel movement in 12 hours, or if you have rectal bleeding.

  • Tell your doctor if your constipation does not improve after using this medicine for 1 week.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

  • Before using this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or a sudden change in bowel habits.

  • You should not give this medicine to a child under 6 years of age unless a doctor tells you to.

Ducodyl interactions & what to avoid when taking Ducodyl

  • Do not use this medicine within 1 hour after drinking milk or taking an antacid.

  • Before using this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or a sudden change in bowel habits.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you cannot swallow the tablet without chewing.

  • Tell your doctor if your constipation does not improve after using this medicine for 1 week.

  • You should not give this medicine to a child under 6 years of age unless a doctor tells you to.

  • You may not see results for several hours after you have taken this medicine.

  • Stop using this medicine and call your doctor right away if you do not have a bowel movement in 12 hours, or if you have rectal bleeding.

Ducodyl side effects - How does Ducodyl make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Lightheadedness or fainting.

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild stomach cramps or discomfort.