Bisacodyl is the International Nonproprietary Name of a compound that functions as a stimulant laxative. It is typically prescribed for relief of constipation and for the management of neurogenic bowel dysfunction. Bisacodyl is a diphenylmethane derivative and was first used as a laxative in 1953 due to its similarity to phenolphthalein ^*.

Available Forms

Bisacodyl is sold under the trade names Dulcolax, Fleet, Alophen, Correctol as well as generically. It is usually sold as 5mg tablets, 10mg suppositories, or 5mg paediatric suppositories.

Administration

When biscodyl is administered orally, it is usually taken at bedtime, but when it is administered rectally, it is usually taken in the morning. This is due to the relatively long onset of the drug when taken orally (around 6-10 hours) compared to when it is taken rectally (around 15-60 minutes)

External links

• Bisacodyl at drugdigest.org
• Bowel care with bisacodyl suppositories

Laxatives