Bisacodyl is a popular
non-prescription
type of stimulant laxative. The drug reduces short-term constipation and is
also used for preparing the colon or rectum for an examination or surgical
procedure. This over-the-counter laxative can be taken by mouth or through
rectum
Brand Names of Bisacodyl
Dulcolax, Fleet, Alophen, Correctol,
Bisac-Evac, Carters Little Pills, Bisco-Lax, Correctol, Doxidan Tablet,
Dulcolax Laxative, Feen-A-Mint, Fleet Bisacodyl, Evac-U-Gen, Ex-lax Ultra,
Gen Lax, Gentlax Tablet, Laxative Gentle Suppositories, Gentle Laxative,
Modane, Veracolate Magic Bullet etc.
Uses of Bisacodyl Tablets
- It helps in bowel movements.
- It treats constipation.
- It helps to empty the bowels before surgery.
- It also helps n clearing bowels in various other intestinal medical
procedure like colonoscopy or x-rays.
Working of Bisacodyl
Bisacodyl works by stimulating colon movement
(peristalsis). Constipation problem is usually solved within 15 minutes to
60 minutes after administration of a suppository form and in six to twelve
hours after oral administration. Bisacodyl works by stimulating enteric
nerves to produce colonic mass movements. It also increases fluid and NaCl
secretion.
Dosage and Administartion of Bisacodyl
The drug needs to be taken
at night , if administered orally, and during morning if taken through the
rectum. The drug is usually sold as 5mg tablets, 10mg suppositories, or 5mg
paediatric suppositories. When taken orally, the dosage is 5 or 10
milligrams. Maximum up to 20 milligrams can be taken. If taken in the
afternoon or early evening, the drug's effect starts during sleep with
undesirable results. Do not crush or chew the tablet. You need to swallow
bisacodyl tablets whole. It is advisable not to take this medicine within 1
hour of drinking milk or taking antacids and also not to eat anything in
preparation for a barium enema.
The other way of administering the drug is through rectum. Two
suppositories can be taken at once if a strong, enema-like result is needed.
As a small commercially prepared enema, it is usually effective in 5 to 20
minutes.
The Process of Taking Bisocodyl Suppository
Remove the wrapper.
Take some luke warm water and dip the tip of the suppository in it. The
patient should lie on the left side and raise his right knee to his chest.
Using his finger, the suppository should be inserted high into your rectum.
Hold it in place as long as possible. The hands should be washed thoroughly.
The Process of Taking Bisacodyl Enema
The enema bottle should be
shaked well. The protective shield from the tip should be removed. Here also
the patient should lie on the left side and raise his right knee to his
chest. Then the enema bottle should be inserted into the rectum gently with
the tip pointing toward the navel. Squeeze the bottle gently until nearly
all the medicine is expelled. Remove the bottle from the rectum and the the
enema contents should be hold in place for as long as possible.
Side Effects of Bisocodyl
The drug has certain side effects, that
can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the side
effects, that are often associated with the drug:
- Nausea
- Muscle weakness
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Cramps
Nursing and pregnant women should consult a doctor before taking the
drug.
Disclaimer: The above information is for general understanding
of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before
taking the aforesaid medicine.