Bisacodyl
DULCOLAX
Pronunciation: bis-AK-oe-dil
“Dookie laxative Busy coding”
What it isLocally acting colonic laxative; constipation and bowel preparation.
Why this oneReliable onset within six to twelve hours orally, or an hour rectally.
What limits itCramping and electrolyte loss can occur. The enteric coating must not be crushed or taken with antacids.
Bisacodyl prescription history
Animated chart of estimated U.S. prescriptions per year, Constipation meds (1900–2026). Bisacodyl enters in 1955 (estimated).
FDA-approved for
- constipation (~1958)
Principal riskCramping and electrolyte loss
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
NO BOXED WARNINGS
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Occasional constipation | Adults & children ≥12 yr | 1–3 tablets QD | 1–3 tablets QD | 3 tablets QD |
| Occasional constipation | Children 6 to <12 yr | 1 tablet QD | 1 tablet QD | 1 tablet QD |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Take with a glass of water
- Swallow delayed-release tablet whole
- Do not exceed directed dose
- Children <6 yr: ask a doctor
Available strengths
- DR tab 5 mg
- cap 5 mg
- tab 5 mg
- enema 10 mg/30 mL
- supp 10 mg
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
Cost
Bisacodyl (DULCOLAX)
What pharmacies pay · NADAC 9/30/26 · OTC
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/mo | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 mg | DR tab | 30 qd | $1.32 | not offered |
Open Bisacodyl in the interactive console ↗
Self-check
- How quickly does oral bisacodyl typically act?
Six to twelve hours. - What must not be done to bisacodyl’s enteric coating?
Do not crush or take with antacids.