Dulcolax 5mg Gastro Resistant – 100 Tablets

Description

Dulcolax 5mg Gastro Resistant – 100 Tablets

Dulcolax 5mg Gastro Resistant Tablets contain bisacodyl, a laxative used to relieve constipation and to help empty the bowel before medical procedures. Each pack contains 100 tablets, making it a convenient option for short-term management of occasional constipation.

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How It Works

Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that works directly on the muscles of the large bowel, encouraging them to contract and move stools along. The gastro-resistant coating means the tablet passes through the stomach without being broken down, and is only released in the intestine — helping to reduce stomach irritation and improve effectiveness.

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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 at night. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water — do not chew or crush them. Do not take within one hour of drinking milk or taking antacids. Children under 10 years should not take this medicine unless directed by a doctor. 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 pain or cramping
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Feeling of discomfort in the stomach
• Dizziness (particularly when standing up quickly)
• With prolonged use: electrolyte imbalance and low potassium levels

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 who are allergic to bisacodyl or any of the other ingredients
• People with a blocked bowel (intestinal obstruction)
• People with inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (unless advised by a doctor)
• People with severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting of unknown cause
• Children under 10 years of age
• People with severe dehydration

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Interactions

Do not take Dulcolax within one hour of antacids or dairy products such as milk, as these can dissolve the gastro-resistant coating too early. Taking diuretics (water tablets) or corticosteroids alongside bisacodyl may increase the risk of low potassium levels. Excessive or prolonged use may affect how other medicines are absorbed. 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 clinical data on the use of bisacodyl during pregnancy; however, it is generally not recommended during the first trimester. Small amounts of bisacodyl metabolites may pass into breast milk, though the risk to a breastfed infant is considered low. 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 or increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and keep alcohol consumption to a minimum while treating constipation.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Dulcolax is not expected to affect your ability to drive or use machinery. However, some people may experience dizziness as a side effect — if this affects you, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you feel well again.

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Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the tablets in their original packaging to protect from moisture. 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