bisacodyl 10 mg/30 mL enema

Generic name:
Bisacodyl enema - rectal

Pronunciation
(bis-AK-oh-dil)

This product is used to clean stool from the intestines before surgery or certain bowel procedures (such as colonoscopy, radiography) usually with other products. It may also be used for relief of constipation. However, milder products (such as laxatives taken by mouth) should be used whenever possible for constipation.

Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that works by increasing the amount of fluid/salts in the intestines. This effect usually results in a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes.

This product is not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years unless directed by a doctor.

This product is for rectal use only. Read and follow all directions on the product package at least 24 to 48 hours before your surgery/procedure, or use as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Be sure to also follow any diet instructions given by your doctor or medical staff for your surgery/procedure. If you are using this product for constipation, use as directed by your doctor.

Wash your hands before and after using this product. Shake the bottle well before removing the protective shield. Lie on your left side with knee bent. Instead, if you find it more comfortable, you may kneel, then lower your head and chest forward until the left side of the face is resting on the surface with your left arm folded comfortably. With steady pressure, gently insert enema tip into the rectum with a slight side-to-side movement, pointing the tip toward the navel. Do not force the enema tip into the rectum because doing so can cause injury. Squeeze the bottle until nearly all of the liquid is inside the rectum. It is not necessary to empty the bottle completely because it has more liquid than needed. Remove the bottle tip from the rectum. Stay in position for 15 to 20 minutes if possible until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement.

If this product is used too often, it may cause loss of normal bowel function and an inability to have a bowel movement without using the product (laxative dependence). If you notice symptoms of overuse such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, decreased weight, or weakness, contact your doctor promptly.

If you are using this product to prepare for surgery/bowel procedure, contact your doctor promptly if you do not have a bowel movement within 2 hours of using this product. Your doctor may need to give you other directions.

Get medical help right away if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

Rectal irritation/burning/itching, mild abdominal discomfort/cramps, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this product do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• diarrhea that doesn't stop
• rectal bleeding/blisters

Diarrhea that doesn't stop may result in dehydration. Contact your doctor promptly if you notice any symptoms of dehydration such as unusual decreased urination, unusual dry mouth/thirst, fast heartbeat, or dizziness/lightheadedness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using bisacodyl, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• other bowel problems (such as blockage, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding)
• current stomach/abdominal symptoms (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, pain, cramping)

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

To maintain normal bowel habits, it is important to drink plenty of fluids (four to six 8-ounce glasses daily), eat foods high in fiber, and exercise regularly.

Not applicable.

Refer to storage information on the package label. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Protect from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.