Name: Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
Class: Laxative (Contact Cathartic) (Diphenylmethane Cathartic)
Mechanism: Act on colon ® peristalsis. Effects take at least 6 hr. to manifest.
Absorption: Oral ® 5% absorption. Enema, suppositories (can be irritating).
Dist.:
Metabolism.:
Excretion, t½:
Toxicity/S.E.s: Fluid and electrolyte depletion, abdominal cramping, Metabolismolic acidosis or alkalosis, hypocalcemia, tetany. Potential for atonic colon w/prolonged use.
Utility: Preparation of colon for surgery or X-ray.
Special Features: Most useful contact cathartic. Indiv. effective doses vary 4-8x. Acid/base indicator ® pink/red urine. Contact cathartics are most commonly involved in prolonged cathartic abuse. Should never be used > 1 wk of regular therapy. Not recommended for initial therapy.