Bisacodyl
Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative used for treating occasional constipation, working by stimulating intestinal muscles and increasing fluid secretion to promote bowel movements.
Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative used to provide short-term relief from occasional constipation by stimulating bowel movements.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A06AB02
- RxNorm
- 19711
- Generic
- Bisacodyl
- Class
- atc-a06
- Brands
- Dulcolax, Bisac-Evac, Correct (New Formula), Laxomil, The Magic Bullet, Ex-lax Ultra, Alophen Reformulated Jan 2008, Evac-U-Gen Reformulated Jan 2008, Feen-A-Mint Reformulated Jan 2008, Correctol laxative Reformulated Feb 2008
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 8
- Onset (min)
- 360
- Duration (h)
- 8
- Routes
- oral, rectal
- Forms
- delayed-release tablet, suppository, enema
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, Japan
- Monitoring
- electrolyte levels, hydration status, bowel function
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Bisacodyl is primarily used to treat occasional constipation and to empty the bowels before medical procedures such as colonoscopy or surgery. It is suitable for short-term use when dietary changes or bulk-forming laxatives have not provided adequate relief.
Bisacodyl works as a stimulant laxative by directly stimulating the nerve endings in the lining of the colon and rectum. This stimulation increases peristalsis (the wave-like contractions of intestinal muscles) and promotes the secretion of water and electrolytes into the colon, softening stool and accelerating its passage.
Bisacodyl should not be used for extended periods (generally no more than 7-10 days) as prolonged use may lead to dependency and electrolyte imbalance. It is contraindicated in patients with intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease flare-ups, or severe abdominal pain. Oral tablets should not be taken within one hour of dairy products or antacids to prevent irritation. As with all laxatives, adequate fluid intake should be maintained during use.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy