Bisacodyl

Bisacodyl, a stimulant-type laxative used to treat constipation, is available as a nonprescription product. All laxatives, including bisacodyl, should be used for a maximum of one week to prevent laxative dependence and loss of normal bowel function.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)

May be Beneficial: Depletion or interference—The medication may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the nutrient. Taking these nutrients may help replenish them.	Potassium
Side effect reduction/prevention	None known
Supportive interaction	None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability	None known
Adverse interaction	None known

Interactions with Dietary Supplements

Potassium and other nutrients
Prolonged and frequent use of stimulant laxatives, including bisacodyl, may cause excessive and unwanted loss of water, potassium, and other nutrients from the body.¹ ² Bisacodyl should be used for a maximum of one week, or as directed on the package label. Excessive use of any laxative can cause depletion of many nutrients. In order to protect against multiple nutrient deficiencies, it is important to not overuse laxatives.³ People with constipation should consult with their doctor or pharmacist before using bisacodyl.

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds

Food
Bisacodyl tablets are enteric coated to pass through the stomach and dissolve in the small intestine. Milk, dairy products, vegetables, almonds, chestnuts, and other foods can cause the enteric coating to dissolve in the stomach, leading to irritation and cramping.⁴ People should take bisacodyl one hour before or two hours after meals to avoid this problem.

References

1. Fleming BJ, Genuth SM, Gould AB, Kaminokowski MD. Laxative induced hypokalemia, sodium depletion, and hyperreninemia. Effects of potassium and sodium replacement on the rennin angiotensin system. Ann Intern Med 1975;83:60–2.

2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Gastrointestinal Drugs, Laxatives. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1991, 319a.

3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Gastrointestinal Drugs, Laxatives. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1991, 319a.

4. Holt GA. Food & Drug Interactions. Chicago: Precept Press, 1998, 49.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires July 2004.