bisacodyl

After a dose of bisacodyl tablet, it'll typically take 6 to 12 hours before you'll have a bowel movement. Because of this, bisacodyl tablet might not be the best option if you're looking for immediate relief. If you need medications that work quicker, ask your provider if magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) (works within 30 minutes to 6 hours) or bisacodyl suppository (can ease constipation in 15 minutes to 1 hour) are possible options for you.

Each bisacodyl tablet contains 5 mg of bisacodyl. For children between 6 to 11 years old, the typical dose is 1 tablet by mouth once a day. For adults and children ages 12 years and older, the typical dose is 1 tablet to 3 tablets by mouth once a day. It's recommended that you start with the lowest dose (1 tablet) since taking too much bisacodyl tablet can cause more side effects, such as cramping. If 1 tablet isn't enough to relieve constipation, you can raise the dose the next day as needed. Let your provider know if you don't experience relief from constipation after taking the maximum dose.

Typically, you can take bisacodyl tablet by mouth once a day to help with occasional constipation. But it's not recommended that you take this medication for longer than a week since it can cause your body to rely on bisacodyl tablet to relieve yourself. If you've constipation for longer than a week, talk to your provider. They can examine you and discuss other possible causes of your constipation, such as medications or medical conditions.

There's mixed evidence on whether or not bisacodyl tablet is safe to take during pregnancy. Stimulant laxatives, like bisacodyl tablet, aren't first-choice options for treating constipation during pregnancy. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the best way to ease the occasional constipation is to eat more fiber. But if that doesn't help, bulk-forming laxatives, like psyllium (Metamucil), are typically the first-choice option. Talk with your provider if you experience constipation during pregnancy.

Bisacodyl tablet can be taken at any time throughout the day. But given that this medication takes 6 to 12 hours to work, make sure you have easy access to the bathroom within that time frame. Some people find it helpful to take this medication right before bedtime so they can use the bathroom in the morning.

Bisacodyl tablet can be taken with or without food. The only exception is that you shouldn't take this medication within 1 hour of dairy products (e.g., milk) or antacids. This is because dairy products and antacids can change how this medication gets absorbed and prevents it from working properly in the guts.