What is Dulcolax? Uses, warnings & side effects

Follow all the directions on the packaging. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.

If Dulcolax is being used under the advice of a doctor, follow the doctor’s instructions.

How to take Dulcolax Overnight Laxative (bisacodyl): 

• Tablets should be taken at nighttime before bed.

• Start with the lowest dose (one tablet).

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablet.

• Do not take the tablet with antacids or milk.

• It may take 12–72 hours for a dose to work.

• Store at room temperature, protected from excessive humidity.

How to take Dulcolax suppositories (bisacodyl): 

• Dulcolax suppositories are meant to be inserted into the rectum only. Do not take suppositories by mouth.

• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. 

• Peel open the plastic and remove the suppository. 

• Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum about one inch.

• Keep the suppository in the rectum for 15–20 minutes. 

• Wash your hands again.

• It usually takes 15–60 minutes for a dose to work.

• Store at room temperature.

How to take Dulcolax Stool Softener (docusate): 

• Swallow the capsule with a glass of water.

• Store at room temperature, protected from excessive humidity.

How to take Dulcolax Chewy Fruit Bites or Soft Chews (magnesium hydroxide): 

• Doses can be taken once per day or split into two doses.

• Take each dose with a full glass of water. 

• Store at room temperature.

How to take Dulcolax Liquid (magnesium hydroxide): 

• Doses can be taken once per day or divided into two separate doses.

• Shake the bottle well before measuring a dose.

• Use the dosing cup that comes with this medicine to measure doses.

• Drink a full glass of water when taking a dose.

• Store at room temperature with the cap closed tightly on the bottle.

If a dose of Dulcolax is missed, take it when remembered.

Bisacodyl tablets are best taken at night. If a dose is missed, you can take the dose during the day, but it may take several hours to work.

Never exceed the recommended daily dose to make up for a missed dose.

Never take two doses in a 24-hour period.

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to bisacodyl, docusate, magnesium hydroxide, or any of the inactive ingredients in Dulcolax.

Before taking any Dulcolax product, consult with a healthcare professional first if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have:

• Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting

• Any sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted longer than two weeks

• Any stomach or intestinal condition

In addition to the above, anyone taking magnesium hydroxide laxatives should first talk to a doctor if they have:

• Kidney disease 

• A magnesium-restricted diet

Stop using Dulcolax and talk to a doctor if:

• You do not have a bowel movement

• You need to take Dulcolax for longer than one week

• You experience rectal bleeding

Talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional if you cannot swallow Dulcolax tablets or capsules without chewing. You should not take bisacodyl tablets if you can’t swallow them without chewing.

You should not use this laxative for longer than one week unless approved by your doctor. Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long.

Keep Dulcolax out of the reach of children, particularly flavored products.

Tell any prescriber treating you that you are using Dulcolax. Magnesium hydroxide, docusate, and bisacodyl can interfere with some prescription medications.

You should not take a bisacodyl tablet within one hour before or after drinking milk or taking an antacid.

You should not use mineral oil while taking Dulcolax Stool Softener (docusate).

Do not take Dulcolax Stool Softener within two hours before or after taking any other medicines.