Dulcolax Twelve Plus 10mg Suppositories

Description

Dulcolax Twelve Plus 10mg Suppositories contain bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative, for the short-term relief of occasional constipation in adults and children over 12 years. They usually work within 10 to 30 minutes. 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

Active ingredient	Bisacodyl 10mg per suppository
Format	Rectal suppository (blister strips)
Use	Short-term relief of occasional constipation
Age	Adults and children over 12 years. Not for children under 12.
Dose	One 10mg suppository daily
Onset	Usually about 20 minutes (range 10 to 30 minutes)
Duration of use	Do not use for more than 5 days in a row without medical advice
Other ingredients	Hard fat
Pack	12 suppositories

Who it is for

Adults and children over 12 who need fast, short-term relief from occasional constipation.
People who prefer a suppository to an oral laxative, or who need a predictable effect within about half an hour.

Not suitable for: Anyone allergic to bisacodyl or hard fat; severe dehydration; a blocked bowel (ileus or intestinal obstruction); serious abdominal conditions such as appendicitis or severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting; acute inflammatory bowel disease or ulcerative proctitis; anal fissures; children under 12. Talk to a pharmacist or doctor first if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take water tablets (diuretics), steroid medicines or other laxatives.

How to use

Read the label and Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use.
Adults and children over 12: use one 10mg suppository once a day.
Remove the foil wrapping. Lie on your side with your knees drawn up towards your chest.
Using your index or middle finger, push the suppository, pointed end first, as far as you can into your back passage, then push it sideways so it touches the bowel wall.
Lower your legs to a comfortable position. The suppository usually works within 10 to 30 minutes.
Do not use more than the label tells you to, and do not use for more than 5 days in a row. If you still need a laxative, see your doctor.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly does a Dulcolax suppository work?

It is usually effective in about 20 minutes, with a usual range of 10 to 30 minutes.

Can children use it?

Only children over 12 years. Dulcolax Twelve Plus 10mg Suppositories must not be used in children and adolescents under 12.

How many days can I use it for?

Use it for short-term relief only. Do not use for more than 5 days in a row without finding out the cause of the constipation with your doctor. Once your bowels are regular again, stop or reduce use.

Can I use it if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding.

What are the common side effects?

The most common are abdominal cramps or pain, diarrhoea and nausea. See the PIL for the full list.

Does it help with weight loss?

No. Bisacodyl is a laxative and does not help you lose weight.

Safety and storage

Overuse of laxatives can upset your fluid and salt balance and cause severe dehydration; symptoms include tremor, weakness, blurred vision and fainting.
Some people feel dizzy or faint after using it. Do not drive or use machines if you are affected.
Do not store above 25°C. Keep the blisters in the outer carton to protect from light. Do not use after the expiry date.
Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Read the PIL. Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.