Bisacodyl is an organic compound that is used as a stimulant laxative drug. It works directly on the Large intestine to produce a bowel movement. It is typically prescribed for relief of episodic and chronic constipation and for the management of neurogenic bowel dysfunction, as well as part of bowel preparation before medical examinations, such as for a colonoscopy.
Bisacodyl is a derivative of triphenylmethane. It was first used as a laxative in 1953 because of its structural similarity to phenolphthalein.
It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.
Medical uses
Bisacodyl is used to treat both episodic and chronic constipation, manage symptoms of neurogenic bowel dysfunction, as well as for bowel preparation for a colonoscopy.
Available forms
Bisacodyl is marketed under the trade names
Dulcolax/Durolax,
Muxol,
Fleet,
Nourilax,
Alophen,
Correctol, and
Carter's Little Pills (formerly Carter's Little Liver Pills),
as well as being available
generic drug. It is usually sold as 5 mg tablets, 10 mg
suppositories, or 5 mg pediatric suppositories. It is also available as a pre-packaged
enema containing a 10 mg delivered dose of liquid bisacodyl.
Administration
When administered rectally in
suppository form, it is usually effective in 15 to 60 minutes. For optimal use, if used as a suppository, it is recommended that bisacodyl be given after breakfast to synchronize with the gastrocolic reflex.
As a commercially prepared micro-enema, it is usually effective in 5 to 20 minutes.
Mechanism of action
Bisacodyl works by stimulating enteric neurons to cause
peristalsis (i.e., colonic contractions). It is also a contact laxative; it increases fluid and salt secretion. The action of bisacodyl on the
small intestine is negligible; stimulant laxatives mainly promote evacuation of the colon.
[
]
