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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Is The Right Way To Take Bisacodyl?

I am required to take Bisacodyl 5 mg D/R. E.C. 2 tablets for a colonsocopy in the morning at 7 am. I have lost my instructions. I am also to begin drinking shortly approximately 124 ounces of GoLYTELY. Am I to take the Bisacodyl before drinking the solution or when I am ready to go to bed in about one hour? Thank you.
Tue, 27 Dec 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi & Welcome.

Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative. It acts directly on the bowels, stimulating the bowel muscles to cause a bowel movement. It takes about 10-12 hours to work; therefore, it is best taken at bedtime. Do not chew or break the tablets. It should be taken in the dose of 5 to 15 mg (1 to 3 tablets) orally once a day preferably at bedtime.

Where as GoLYTELY (Polyethylene glycol/Electrolytes) solution which is commonly used for cleaning out the bowel before surgery or other procedures like colonoscopy should be taken early in the evening prior to colonoscopy. It can be taken up to 4 liters at a rate of 240 mL (8 oz.) every 10 minutes, until 4 liters are consumed or the rectal effluent is clear.

Hope this answers your query.



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What Is The Right Way To Take Bisacodyl?

Hi & Welcome. Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative. It acts directly on the bowels, stimulating the bowel muscles to cause a bowel movement. It takes about 10-12 hours to work; therefore, it is best taken at bedtime. Do not chew or break the tablets. It should be taken in the dose of 5 to 15 mg (1 to 3 tablets) orally once a day preferably at bedtime. Where as GoLYTELY (Polyethylene glycol/Electrolytes) solution which is commonly used for cleaning out the bowel before surgery or other procedures like colonoscopy should be taken early in the evening prior to colonoscopy. It can be taken up to 4 liters at a rate of 240 mL (8 oz.) every 10 minutes, until 4 liters are consumed or the rectal effluent is clear. Hope this answers your query.