Bisacodyl

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Apr 28, 2023

Warnings

Bisacodyl Risks, Warnings, and Complications

Bisacodyl can cause new or worsening health problems in some people. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other treatments for constipation if you are at an increased risk of complications from bisacodyl use. Some of the risks of taking bisacodyl include:

COMPLETE OR PARTIAL INTESTINAL BLOCKAGE: Stop taking bisacodyl tablets and call your health care professional without delay if you develop rectal bleeding or do not have a bowel movement after taking the laxative. You may have a serious medical problem, such as intestinal blockage.
ALLERGIC REACTIONS: A serious allergic reaction to bisacodyl is rare. However, get immediate medical attention if you develop skin rash, hives, itching, trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat after taking this medication.

Precautions Before Starting Bisacodyl

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to bisacodyl, any of the active or inactive ingredients in bisacodyl formulations, or any other medications. Your pharmacy can give you a list of ingredients.

Give your doctor and pharmacist a complete list of your medications, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. This can help avoid possible drug interactions.

Give your doctor a complete medical history. Bisacodyl may not be right for people with certain medical conditions. Tell your doctor if you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or a sudden change in bowel habits in the last 2 weeks.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, could be pregnant, plan to get pregnant, or are nursing an infant with breast milk.

Precautions During Use of Bisacodyl

Do not take bisacodyl tablets more than once a day or for more than one week without your doctor’s approval.

If you take antacids, proton pump inhibitors (medications used to treat acid reflux), or dairy products, take them at least 1 hour away from bisacodyl. Swallow bisacodyl tablets with water, not milk.

Tell your doctor if you become pregnant while on bisacodyl. Talk to your doctor before breastfeeding an infant while on this medicine.

Bisacodyl Drug Interactions

Certain other drugs can affect how bisacodyl works. Possible interactions between bisacodyl and other medicines can increase the risk of severe adverse reactions.

Give your doctor or pharmacist a complete list of your medications, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal remedies. Also, tell your healthcare professional if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use recreational drugs because some of these substances can cause serious health complications when used with prescription and over-the-counter medications.

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