Compare Suprep vs. Dulcolax
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Suprep (sodium sulfate/potassium sulfate/magnesium sulfate) and bisacodyl (Dulcolax) are both used to help with bowel movements, but they work differently and are used for different purposes. Suprep is an osmotic laxative that requires a prescription and is used to clean out your colon before a colonoscopy. It usually involves taking two doses, spread out over two days. On the other hand, bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative available over-the-counter and is used for occasional constipation. It typically takes 6 to 12 hours to work and is taken once a day. Suprep can cause side effects like stomach discomfort and bloating, while bisacodyl may cause belly discomfort and cramps. Suprep is not recommended for people with kidney problems, whereas bisacodyl should not be taken with antacids or milk.
- SuprepBisacodyl tablet
- SuprepBisacodyl tablet
Summary of Suprep vs. Dulcolax
Summary for Osmotic laxativePrescription onlySuprep is a combination bowel prep kit used to clean out your colon before a colonoscopy. It works by causing diarrhea, which helps clear your intestines so that your gastroenterologist can see inside your colon more clearly. The medication is a berry-flavored liquid taken in two doses that must be prepared according to the instructions. You take the first dose on the night before your procedure and the second dose on the morning of your procedure. Common side effects include bloating, stomach pain, and nausea.
Summary for Stimulant laxativeBisacodyl tablet is found over-the-counter (OTC) and used as a laxative for occasional constipation. Typically, you take bisacodyl tablet by mouth once a day. It usually starts working within 6 to 12 hours after the dose. The most common side effects of bisacodyl tablet are belly discomfort and cramps.
Indications of Suprep vs. Dulcolax
Indications forIndications for•Occasional constipation and irregular bowel movementsPros and Cons of Suprep vs. Dulcolax
Pros and Const for Osmotic laxativePros•Works quickly, within an hour or so•Requires less liquid to drink compared to other bowel prep products•Berry-flavored for taste•Brand-name medication is approved for adults and children 12 years and olderCons•Commonly causes nausea and vomiting•Might not be safe for people with kidney problems•Raises the risk of a gout attack in people with gout•Can interact with medications taken by mouth if taken close to your prep timePros and Const for Stimulant laxativePros•Available over the counter•Generally well-tolerated if taken as directed•Available as a lower-cost generic medication•Only taken once a dayCons•Typically takes 6 to 12 hours to relieve constipation•Must ask provider first if pregnant, breastfeeding, or for children under 6 years old•Shouldn't take with antacids and milk•Should only be taken short-term (less than 7 days) unless otherwise directed by your providerCommon Side Effects of Suprep vs. Dulcolax
Common Side Effects forAdults:
•Overall discomfort (54%)•Bloating (40%)•Stomach pain (36%)•Nausea (36%)•Vomiting (8%)Children: (more than 10%)
•Nausea•Stomach pain•Bloating•VomitingCommon Side Effects forWarnings of Suprep vs. Dulcolax
Common Side Effects for•Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance•Heart rhythm problems•Seizures•Kidney problems•Colon problems•Serious chokingCommon Side Effects for•More medical attention neededPrices with our coupons for Suprep vs. Dulcolax
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