Constipated? Time’s Up.

Need relief fast? Dulcolax® 10 mg Suppositories can get you going within 15-60 minutes of use. On your mark, get set, relief.

  • Comfort-shaped medicated suppository for rectal use only
  • Contains the active ingredient bisacodyl

FAQ section

Who can use the Dulcolax® 10 mg Suppository?

Adults and children over the age of 12 can take one 10 mg Dulcolax® Suppository a day for up to 7 days.

What time of day should I use the Dulcolax® Suppository?

A bowel movement is generally produced within 15-60 minutes after inserting the suppository, so you should use it at a convenient time when you will have access to a toilet.

How often can I use the Dulcolax® Suppository? Is it safe for daily use?

Dulcolax® Suppositories should only be used when you are constipated. It can be used daily up to a maximum of 7 days. Do not take a double dose.

How do I insert the Dulcolax® Suppository?

The suppositories should only be used in your rectum (back passage).

  • Take off the foil wrapping.
  • Lie on one side and pull your knees up towards your chest. Keep the top leg drawn up more than the bottom leg.
  • Use your first finger (index finger) or middle finger to push the suppository into your rectum (back passage), pointed end first.
  • Gently push it as far as possible,* then push it sideways to ensure it touches the bowel wall.
  • Lower your legs to a comfortable position while the suppository is retained in place.
  • If you feel the suppository might come out straight away, you may not have inserted it high enough. Repeat steps 2-5. * About 8 cm (full index finger length) for adults and about 2,5-4 cm (up to second knuckle of index finger) for children.

Do I need to remove the Dulcolax® Suppository after it has been inserted?

No, the suppository will dissolve in your rectum (back passage), and any remnants will be ejected when you have a bowel movement.

How does the Dulcolax® Suppository work?

Dulcolax® Suppositories are classified as stimulant laxatives but have a triple mechanism of action that stimulates, softens and speeds up. 2 It works directly on the bowel wall to: 2

  • Stimulate gut motility (peristalsis) to move the stool through the colon and rectum.
  • Soften the stool by increasing gut secretion to increase the water content of the stool, making it easier to pass through the colon and rectum.
  • Speed up the movement of the stool through the colon and rectum by increasing gut motility (peristalsis).

Should I eat before using a suppository?

It is recommended to make changes in your diet to control constipation before using Dulcolax® Suppositories. These healthy tips are recommended to try to prevent constipation happening:

  • Eat a balanced diet, including fresh fruit and vegetables.
  • Drink enough water so that you do not become dehydrated.
  • Keep up your exercise and stay fit.
  • Make time to empty your bowels when your body tells you.

Medicine Facts

Active ingredient (in each suppository)

Bisacodyl USP 10 mg

Purpose

Stimulant laxative

Use

  • For the short-term relief of occasional constipation in adults
  • This product generally produces a bowel movement within 15-60 minutes

Warnings

For rectal use only

Ask a doctor before use if you have

  • Stomach pain, nausea or vomiting
  • Noticed a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts more than 2 weeks

When using this product

It may cause stomach discomfort, faintness and cramps

Stop use and ask a doctor if

  • You have rectal bleeding or no bowel movement after using this product. These could be signs of a serious condition
  • You need to use a laxative for more than 1 week

Keep out of reach of children

  •  In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away 

Directions

Adults and children 12 years of age and over

 

Insert one 10 mg suppository rectally in a single daily dose. Take off the foil wrapping. Insert suppository 8 cm into the rectum, pointed end first. Retain about 15-20 minutes

Other information

  • For more information, refer to the professional information leaflet here

Corsetti M, Landers S, Lange R. Bisacodyl: A review of pharmacology and clinical evidence to guide use in clinical practice in patients with constipation.
Neurogastroenterol Mot 2021;33:e14123.

S0 DULCOLAX® 10 mg Suppositories. Each adult suppository contains 10 mg bisacodyl. Reg. No. E/11.5/532.
For full prescribing information refer to the professional information approved by the medicines regulatory authority.

S0 DULCOLAX® 5 mg Suppositories. Each paediatric suppository contains 5 mg bisacodyl. Reg. No. E/11.5/534.
For full prescribing information refer to the professional information approved by the medicines regulatory authority.

CFAO Healthcare South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Reg. no.: 2020/176440/07. 6th Floor, The Atium on 5th, Cnr Maude and 5th Street, Sandton, 2146. Tel: (011) 779 6500