Dulcolax Tablets

GENERIC NAME: BISACODYL (bis-a-KOE-dill)

COMMON USES: This medicine is a stimulant laxative used to treat constipation or to empty the bowel in preparation for tests.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICINE: Use this medicine exactly as directed on the package, unless instructed differently by your doctor. SWALLOW WHOLE. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing. TAKE THIS MEDICINE WITH 8 ounces of water. DO NOT TAKE WITHIN 1 hour of antacids or milk. DRINK EXTRA FLUIDS while you are taking this medicine, unless instructed differently by your doctor. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light.

CAUTIONS: DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for more than 1 week unless otherwise directed by your doctor. USING THIS MEDICINE FOR A LONG TIME may result in loss of normal bowel function. DO NOT TAKE additional laxatives or stool softeners with this medicine unless directed by your doctor. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE if you experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or rectal bleeding, except under the direction of your doctor. IF YOU NOTICE A SUDDEN CHANGE IN BOWEL HABITS which lasts for 2 weeks or more, do not continue using this medicine. Instead, check with your doctor.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS: SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include abdominal discomfort, cramping, or diarrhea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICINE: Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. USE OF THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have appendicitis or a history of bowel obstruction. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using this medicine.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children.

The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.