Patient Education

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Bisacodyl Enema (BISACODYL ENEMA - RECTAL)

For bowel movement.

Generic Name: Bisacodyl

Instructions

This medicine is for use in the rectum. DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Shake the bottle well before using the medicine.

Use the applicator that is supplied with this medicine to insert the medicine into the anus.

Follow the instructions on the package to use this medicine correctly.

Wash your hands before and after using this medicine. However, do not get up right away to wash your hands if you are supposed to lie down for a period of time to give the medicine time to work.

Lie on left side with knee bent OR kneel and lower your head down until it touches the floor or onto your folded arm.

Remove the cap from the bottle, and insert the tip of the enema bottle gently into the anus, pointing it toward your belly button. Squeeze the bottle until most of the liquid is out, then remove the bottle.

Stay in position and hold medicine in for 15-20 minutes, if possible, until you have a strong urge to have a bowel movement.

Bowel movement will usually occur within 15 to 60 minutes.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Inspect the applicator (syringe) tip carefully. Do not use if cracked or broken.

Frequent or long term use of laxatives can cause your bowels to depend on them. Do not use laxatives for more than one week unless directed by your doctor.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

You may stop using this medicine if you no longer have symptoms.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • abdominal cramps
  • diarrhea
  • nausea
  • rectal burning or irritation
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding from rectum
  • severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • dry mouth
  • fainting
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • urinating less often

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.