Women'S Gentle Laxative (Bisacodyl) Oral: Side Effects, Uses, Warnings

Side Effects

Stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or weakness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn’t stop, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, decreased urination, mental/mood changes (such as confusion).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

How long does it take for this medicine to take effect?

The time to onset for a gentle laxative varies depending on the active ingredient(s). For stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl, effects can typically be expected within 6 to 12 hours when taken orally, and faster if used rectally. Bulk-forming laxatives may take 12 to 24 hours or more to produce an effect.

How long do the effects of this medicine last?

The effects of a single dose of a gentle laxative, such as improved bowel movement, are usually transient and may last for a few hours after the laxative has taken effect. The overall duration depends on individual digestive system response and the specific laxative’s mechanism of action.

Is it safe to consume alcohol while taking this medicine?

There are no direct interactions between mild, over-the-counter laxatives and alcohol. However, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, potentially exacerbating constipation in some individuals. It’s generally advisable to maintain adequate hydration when taking laxatives.

Is this a habit forming medicine?

Stimulant laxatives, if used excessively or for prolonged periods, can lead to dependence, where normal bowel function becomes reliant on their use to achieve bowel movements. Bulk-forming laxatives are not habit-forming but should be used according to label directions to avoid adverse effects.

Can this medicine be taken during pregnancy?

Many gentle laxatives are considered safe for use during pregnancy, but it’s essential to choose a product based on the active ingredient(s). Bulk-forming laxatives are generally safe, while the use of stimulant laxatives during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider to weigh potential risks and benefits.

Can this medicine be taken while breast-feeding?

Laxatives that act locally in the gut, such as bulk-forming agents, are usually considered safe during breastfeeding, as minimal to no absorption into the bloodstream means minimal to no transfer to breast milk. However, the safety of specific stimulant laxatives can vary, and nursing mothers should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Uses

Bisacodyl is used to treat constipation. It may also be used to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination/surgery. Bisacodyl is known as a stimulant laxative. It works by increasing the movement of the intestines, helping the stool to come out.

How to use Women’s Gentle LAXATIVE

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet or take it within 1 hour of antacids, milk, or milk products. Doing so can destroy the coating on the tablet and may increase the risk of stomach upset and nausea.

Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor. Serious side effects may occur with overuse of this medication .

It may take 6 to 12 hours before this medication causes a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Precautions

Before taking bisacodyl, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis (such as nausea/vomiting, sudden or unexplained stomach/abdominal pain), a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than 2 weeks, bleeding from the rectum, intestinal blockage.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Using it for long periods during pregnancy is not recommended. Consult your doctor for more details.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn’t stop, severe stomach/abdominal pain or cramping.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Lifestyle changes that may prevent or relieve constipation include exercising, drinking enough water, and eating a proper diet with fiber-rich foods such as bran, fresh fruits/vegetables. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.

If your doctor has directed you to take this medication on a regular schedule and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug are: medications that decrease stomach acid (such as H2 blockers like ranitidine, proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole).