Bisacodyl, Rectal

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: laxative

Generic and brand names: bisacodyl, rectal; Bisacodyl Suppositories; Dacodyl; Dulcolax Suppositories; Evac-Q-Kwik; Fleet Bisacodyl Enema; Fleet Bisacodyl Prep Kit (There may be other brand names for this medicine.)

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine, in the form of a rectal enema or suppository, is a laxative used to:

• Relieve constipation.
• Empty the colon for colon, rectal, and bowel examinations.

Do not give enemas to children under 2 years old unless directed by your healthcare provider. When using this medicine in children, use only the ones specially made for children.

What should my healthcare provider know before I take this medicine?

Before taking this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to any medicine
• an obstruction (blockage) of your intestines.

If you have had a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted more than 2 weeks or you have already used a laxative for more than 1 week, talk with your healthcare provider before using this medicine.

Many medicines may cause constipation. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you are taking. Also tell your provider about laxatives you have taken before.

Talk with your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your health care provider's approval.

How do I use it?

This medicine is for rectal use only. Check the label on the medicine for directions about your specific dose. Use this medicine exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes. If your provider has not given you specific instructions, follow the directions that come in the medicine package. Do not use more or take it longer than prescribed. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about anything you do not understand.

Wash your hands before using this medicine. If you are using an enema, lubricate the rectal opening with petroleum jelly (Vaseline) and gently insert the tip of the applicator into the rectum. Some enema applicators may already be lubricated.

If you are using a suppository, remove the foil wrapper and moisten the suppository with water or water-based lubricating jelly. If the suppository is too soft to insert easily, run cold water over it or put it in ice water until it is firm. If it is too dry or hard, moisten it with warm water. Lie on your left side and bend your right knee up toward your chest. Gently push the suppository into your rectum so it is deep enough not to come out.

What if I overdose?

If you or anyone else has intentionally taken too much of this medicine, call 911 or go to the emergency room right away. If you pass out, have seizures, weakness or confusion, or have trouble breathing, call 911. If you think that you or anyone else may have taken too much of this medicine, call the poison control center. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning. The poison control center number is 800-222-1222.

Symptoms of an acute overdose may include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain.

What should I watch out for?

Never use a laxative if you have symptoms of appendicitis or bowel inflammation (severe abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, bloody stools).

Do not use this medicine with any other laxatives unless your healthcare provider tells you to.

Do not use laxatives unless you are constipated. Using laxatives too often or for too long may cause weakness, dizziness, or dependence on laxatives for a bowel movement. Laxatives are recommended for short-term use, usually no longer than 1 week. If you are often constipated, ask your healthcare provider what to do.

Call your healthcare provider if you notice rectal bleeding, burning, itching, or other irritation after an enema.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Bleeding from the rectum, severe stomach pain, continued constipation.

Other: Irritation of the rectal area, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, gas.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported.

Do not use this medicine with any other laxatives unless your healthcare provider tells you to.

Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

How should I store this medicine?

Store this medicine in a cool place but do not refrigerate. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.