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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.

Suprep

 

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bisacodyl tablet

 

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Summary for Suprep

Prescription only

Suprep 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.

Indications for Suprep

Pros and Cons for Suprep

Pros

  • 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 older

Cons

  • 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 time

Common Side Effects for Suprep

Adults:

  • Overall discomfort (54%)
  • Bloating (40%)
  • Stomach pain (36%)
  • Nausea (36%)
  • Vomiting (8%)

Children: (more than 10%)

  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Bloating
  • Vomiting

Warnings for Suprep

  • Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
  • Heart rhythm problems
  • Seizures
  • Kidney problems
  • Colon problems
  • Serious choking

Summary for Dulcolax

Over-the-counter

Bisacodyl 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 for Dulcolax

  • Occasional constipation and irregular bowel movements

Pros and Cons for Dulcolax

Pros

  • Available over the counter
  • Generally well-tolerated if taken as directed
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Only taken once a day

Cons

  • 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 provider

Common Side Effects for Dulcolax

Warnings for Dulcolax

  • More medical attention needed

Prices with our coupons for Suprep vs. Dulcolax

Price Card Drug Icon
Sodium/Potassium/Magnesium1 kit / 2 bottles of oral solution
$34.96$37.11
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Price Card Drug Icon
Bisacodyl4 tablets / 5mg
$8.50-
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