Dulcolax Twelve Plus 5mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets – 40 Tablets

Dulcolax Twelve Plus 5mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets contain bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative, for the short-term relief of occasional constipation in adults and children over 12 years. Taken at bedtime, they usually work within 6 to 12 hours. Pack of 40 tablets, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

This is a pharmacy (P) medicine sold under the supervision of our GPhC-registered pharmacist. You may be asked a few short questions before your order is supplied.

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults and children over 12 with occasional constipation who need short-term, overnight relief.
• People who have not used Dulcolax before should start with one tablet and increase to two only if needed.

Not suitable for: Children under 12. Anyone with a bowel obstruction (ileus), an acute abdominal condition such as appendicitis, acute inflammatory bowel disease, severe abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting, or severe dehydration; anyone allergic to bisacodyl or any of the other ingredients (the tablets contain lactose and sucrose). Do not take in pregnancy, especially the first three months, or while breastfeeding, unless a doctor advises it. Ask a doctor if you need a laxative every day or have persistent abdominal pain or blood in the stool.

How to use

1. Read the label and Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use.
2. Adults and children over 12: take 1 to 2 tablets once daily before bedtime for a bowel movement the next morning.
3. If you have not taken Dulcolax before, start with one tablet and increase to two only if necessary.
4. Swallow the tablets whole with plenty of water. Do not crush or chew them.
5. Do not take within an hour of milk, antacids or medicines that reduce stomach acid (such as proton pump inhibitors), as these can damage the coating.
6. Do not use for more than 5 days in a row. If constipation continues, see your doctor.

Frequently asked questions

Safety and storage

• Prolonged or excessive use can cause fluid and salt imbalance and low potassium, and everyday long-term use can harm bowel function.
• Mild, self-limiting blood in the stool has been reported. See a doctor if this persists or if you have severe abdominal pain.
• Do not store above 25°C. Keep the blister in the outer carton.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Read the PIL. Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

This is a medicine. Always read the label and the Patient Information Leaflet before use. If symptoms persist, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.