Gen Lax oral and rectal

Bisacodyl is a laxative that stimulates bowel movements.

Bisacodyl is used to treat constipation or to empty the bowels before surgery, colonoscopy, x-rays, or other intestinal medical procedure.

Bisacodyl may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Since bisacodyl is used when needed, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.

If you are preparing for a medical test and you miss your dose, call your doctor for instructions.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if anyone has accidentally swallowed a rectal suppository.

Avoid using other medications within 2 hours before or 2 hours after using bisacodyl.

Avoid drinking milk or taking an antacid within 1 hour before you take bisacodyl by mouth.

Applies to bisacodyl: oral tablets delayed-release, rectal suppositories, rectal suspension

Side effects include:

Some degree of abdominal discomfort, nausea, cramps, griping, and/or faintness with therapeutic doses.

Diarrhea, GI irritation, and fluid and electrolyte depletion.

Gastric irritation and the possibility of vomiting if enteric coating of tablets is disrupted. (See Advice to Patients.)

Rectal administration of bisacodyl (the active ingredient contained in Gen Lax) suspensions or suppositories may cause irritation and a sensation of burning of the rectal mucosa and mild proctitis.

Hepatotoxicity if sufficient tannic acid is absorbed from bisacodyl tannex.