Dulcolax is a drug to treat constipation or difficulty defecating. This medication is available in the form of tablets that are taken by mouth and capsules that are inserted through the rectum (suppositories).
Dulcolax is a laxative that contains bisacodyl. For drinking tablet dosage forms, Dulcolax contains 5 mg bisacodyl in each tablet. Meanwhile, Dulcolax suppositories are available in two preparations, namely 5 mg bisacodyl for children and 10 mg bisacodyl for adults.
Apart from treating constipation or constipation, Dulcolax can also be used to clean the intestines before intestinal surgery and certain medical examinations.
What is Dulcolax
Active ingredients Bisacodyl
class Limited over-the-counter drugs
Category Purgative
Benefit Overcoming constipation or constipation , and to clean the intestines before intestinal surgery or certain medical examinations, such as a colonoscopy
Used by Adults and children 6 years and over
Dulcolax for pregnant and lactating women Category C: Animal studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Dulcolax may be absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medication without consulting your doctor first.
Drug form Tablets and suppositories
Warnings Before Using Dulcolax
Dulcolax should not be used carelessly. There are several things that need to be considered before using this drug, including:
Do not use Dulcolax if you are allergic to this drug or bisacodyl.
Dulcolax should not be used continuously for a long time. If difficult bowel movements do not improve, do an examination to the doctor.
Do not use Dulcolax if you have appendicitis , colitis, intestinal obstruction , ileus, severe dehydration , bloody stools , or severe stomach pain with vomiting .
Consult your doctor first before using Dulcolax if you have or are suffering from other diseases or disorders of the digestive tract, such as hemorrhoids , gastrointestinal bleeding, or ulcerative colitis .
Consult the use of Dulcolax first with your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
Do not take Dulcolax tablets if you have recently taken antacids, milk or dairy products in the last hour.
Do not give Dulcolax to children younger than 2 years without consulting a doctor first.
Immediately consult a doctor if you experience a drug allergic reaction or serious side effects occur after using Dulcolax.
Dosage and Rules for Use Dulcolax
The dosage of Dulcolax varies for each patient. The following is the dosage of Dulcolax to treat constipation based on the patient's age and the form of the drug:
Drug form: tablets
Adults and children 10 years and over: 1–2 tablets per day.
Children 6–10 years: 1 tablet per day.
Medication form: suppository
Adults and children 10 years and older: 1 adult suppository strip (10 mg), one time use.
Children 6–10 years: 1 pediatric suppository strip (5 mg), one time.
To cleanse the intestines before medical examinations and surgeries, the dosage and use of Dulcolax should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
How to Use Dulcolax Properly
Make sure you always read the instructions and instructions for use listed on the drug packaging, before using Dulcolax. If you are unsure or have special health conditions, consult your doctor to get the dosage and method of use that suits your condition.
Use Dulcolax according to the dosage and do not exceed the recommended dose. Dulcolax tablets should not be used for more than 7 days unless approved by a doctor.
To take Dulcolax tablets, swallow the drug whole, without chewing or crushing it first. It takes 6–12 hours after the drug is consumed until the urge to defecate appears. To get fast drug effect, take Dulcolax tablets on an empty stomach.
To use Dulcolax suppositories, wash your hands before and after using the medication. To insert a Dulcolax suppository, lie on your side with your left side down and bend your right leg. Then, slowly insert the capsule with the pointed end in first.
After the medicine has entered, it is recommended that you lie down for 15-20 minutes, until you feel the urge to defecate. If you don't feel like having a bowel movement after using Dulcolax, don't double the dose and contact your doctor immediately.
To help with constipation , before using laxatives, try to eat high-fiber foods and consume sufficient amounts of water.
Dulcolax Interactions with Other Drugs
The bisacodyl content in Dulcolax can cause drug interactions when used with certain drugs. Here are some interactions that can occur:
Decreased effectiveness of Dulcolax when used with antacids
Increased risk of electrolyte disturbances when combined with corticosteroid drugs or diuretic drugs
Increased risk of side effects when used with other laxatives
Dulcolax Side Effects and Dangers
The bisacodyl content in Dulcolax can cause a number of side effects, such as:
Burning sensation in the rectum
Abdominal pain or cramps
Weak
Diarrhea
Nausea or vomiting
Dizzy
Check with your doctor if the side effects above don't go away or get worse. See a doctor immediately if you have an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as diarrhea with severe dehydration, bleeding from the rectum, or bloody bowel movements.