Bisacodyl

Administration

• Type: laxative
• Dosage Forms: tablet, enema, suppository
• Dosage Strengths: tablet: 5mg; enema: 10mg/30mL; suppository: 10mg
• Routes of Administration: PO, PR
• Common Trade Names: Dulcolax, Correctol, BisacEvac, Bisacolax, Codulax, Alophen, Feen A Mint, Fleet Stimulant Laxative, Laxit, Modane

Adult Dosing

• 5-30mg PO daily
• 10mg suppository daily

Pediatric Dosing

• 6-11 yrs: 5mg or rectally daily

Special Populations

• Pregnancy Rating: A
• Lactation risk: infant risk cannot be ruled out

Renal Dosing

• Adult:
• Pediatric:

Hepatic Dosing

• Adult:
• Pediatric:

Contraindications

• Allergy to class/drug
• Appendicitis
• Bowel obstruction
• Gastroenteritis

Adverse Reactions

Serious

• Colonic atony

Common

• Abdominal discomfort/colic, diarrhea, proctitis (with suppository use)

Pharmacology

• Half-life: 8 hr
• Metabolism: Metabolized to BHPM in the colon
• Excretion: Urine and bile

Mechanism of Action

• Stimulates peristalsis via parasympathetic reflexes

See Also

• Constipation

Authors:

Claire, Matin Shah, Neil Young, Ross Donaldson