Dulcolax 5mg Gastro Resistant – 40 Tablets

Description

Dulcolax 5mg Gastro Resistant – 40 Tablets

Dulcolax 5mg Gastro Resistant Tablets contain bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative used to relieve constipation and to help clear the bowel before medical procedures. They are suitable for short-term use in adults and children aged 4 years and over.

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How It Works

Bisacodyl works by directly stimulating the muscles in the large bowel (colon), encouraging them to contract and move stools along more quickly. The gastro-resistant coating means the tablet passes through the stomach without dissolving, so it is only released in the intestines — this helps avoid stomach irritation and improves effectiveness. You can usually expect a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours of taking the tablet.

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Directions for Use

Adults and children aged 10 years and over: take 1 to 2 tablets (5mg to 10mg) once daily, preferably at bedtime, to produce a bowel movement the following morning. Children aged 4 to 9 years: take 1 tablet (5mg) once daily under adult supervision. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water — do not chew or crush them. Do not take with milk or antacids, and avoid taking them within one hour of consuming dairy products. Do not use for more than 5 consecutive days without medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.

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Active Ingredients

• Bisacodyl 5mg per tablet

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Possible Side Effects

• Abdominal discomfort or cramps
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Feeling of rectal burning or irritation
• Electrolyte imbalance with prolonged use (e.g. low potassium)
• Dizziness or faintness (particularly when standing up quickly)
• Allergic reactions such as skin rash (uncommon)

If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.

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Who Should Not Take This Medicine

• People with an intestinal blockage (ileus) or bowel obstruction
• Those with acute inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis during a flare
• People with appendicitis or unexplained abdominal pain
• Those with severe dehydration
• Children under 4 years of age
• Anyone with a known allergy to bisacodyl or any other ingredient in the tablets

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Interactions

Taking Dulcolax with diuretics (water tablets) or corticosteroids may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance, particularly low potassium levels. Antacids and milk can dissolve the gastro-resistant coating prematurely — avoid taking this medicine within one hour of consuming these. High doses of bisacodyl combined with other laxatives may increase the risk of side effects. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is limited data on the use of bisacodyl during pregnancy; as it acts locally in the bowel with minimal absorption, it is generally considered one of the lower-risk options, but it should not be used routinely. Small amounts of bisacodyl metabolites may pass into breast milk, although this is considered unlikely to affect a breastfed infant at normal doses. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

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Alcohol

There is no known direct interaction between bisacodyl and alcohol. However, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which may worsen constipation and increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance when taking a stimulant laxative. It is advisable to stay well hydrated and drink alcohol only in moderation while using this product.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Dulcolax tablets are not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, some people may experience dizziness or faintness, particularly if they become dehydrated. If you feel dizzy or unwell after taking this medicine, avoid driving or using machinery until you feel better.

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Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. No special storage conditions are otherwise required for this product. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

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Important Information

• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.

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Patient Information Leaflet

For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.

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This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: February 2026.

Brand	Dulcolax