DULCOLAX

Drug Data Classification Mechanism of Action Indication Contraindications Adverse Reactions Nursing Responsibilities
Generic Name Pharmacologic Stimulates peristalsis by General Contraindications GI: abdominal Before
Bisacodyl Class: directly irritating the Indications Hypersensitivity, cramps, nausea, -Check for the doctors order
Stimulant smooth muscle of the -treatment for abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal -Confirm patients identity
Trade Name laxatives intestine, possibly the constipation obstruction, N/V burning -Prepare the medicine
Dulcolax colonic intramural plexus; -Assess patient for abdominal distension, presence of bowel
Therapeutic alters water and electrolyte Patients Actual Precautions F&E: hypokalemia sounds and usual pattern of bowel function.
Patients Dose Class: secretion producing net Indication Use cautiously in severe (chronic use) -Assess patients and familys knowledge of drug therapy
1 tab BID laxatives intestinal fluid accumulation -treatment for cardiovascular disease,
and laxation. constipation and or rectal fissures, MS: muscle During
Availability Pregnancy Risk . excess or prolonged weakness (chronic -Administer at bedtime for morning results
Enteric-coated Category: Pharmacokinetics use, products containing use) -P.O: taking on an empty stomach will produce more rapid
tablets: 5 mg B Absorption: tannic acid, should not results.
OTC Minimal from the GI tract be used as multiple MISC: protein- -Do not crush or chew enteric coated tablets. Take with full
Enteric-coated (oral, as enteric-coated enemas, may be used losing enteropathy, glass of water or juice
and delayed tablets/suppositories). during pregnancy & tetany (chronic use) -Do not administer oral doses within 1 hr of milk or antacid
release: 5mg lactation. causes gastric irritation
OTC Metabolism: -Consider rights of drug administration
Converted to bis(p- Drug interactions
Routes of hydroxyphenyl)pyridyl-2- Milk: may remove After
administration methane by intestinal or enteric coating at -Advise patient that laxatives should be used only for short-
P.O bacterial enzymes. tablets, resulting in term therapy. Prolonged use may lead to electrolyte imbalance
gastric & dependence.
Excretion: irritation/dyspepsia -Advise to increase oral fluid intake to 1500-2000 ml/day to
Faeces; urine (as prevent dehydration
glucuronide). -Encouraged pt. to use other forms of bowel regulation
-Advise pt. that bisacodyl should not be used when
Onset: constipation is accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, N/V
- Report any signs of unusualities
oral : 6 to 12 hours
rectal: 20 to 60 minutes

Drug Half Life: 8 hours

Source: Davis Source: Davis Source: Davis drug guide, Source: Davis Source: Davis drug Source: Davis drug Source:Davis drug guide, 9th ed pg. 117-118
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