Dulcolax is a brand for bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative. Dulcolax stimulates the intestines to move, and it also increases sodium and water in the colonic lumen to hydrate the feces to allow easier exit from the body via the rectum.

Dulcolax dosage in tablet form is usually 5mg to 15mg, taken at night or before bed to stimulate a bowel movement the next morning. The tablet takes about six to twelve hours to work and it is generally used to manage constipation or as a bowel preparation medication for colonoscopy. Usually more potent osmotic laxatives like magnesium citrate are preferred for bowel preparation for procedures and surgery.

Dulcolax dosage in suppository form is 10mg when required, and in children less than three years of age is a 5mg suppository. The suppository takes about sixty minute to have an effect in most people, so is considered a rapid acting laxative. The rectal route might seem undesirable at first thought but it is quicker and more effective in promoting bowel movement when required.

Constipation can be caused by many reasons such as lack of fiber and fluid in the diet, stress and medications such as opioid analgesics. For prolonged constipation you should consult your physician to avoid masking a more serious cause of constipation like colon cancer or partial bowel obstruction.

Dulcolax dosage, either orally or rectally, is also used in people who suffer from bulimia to lose weight, and should always be considered in these patients.  It is also often overused by patients with chronic constipation or by the elderly who has trouble going regularly. It is important to remember that constant use of Dulcolax may cause lazy bowel syndrome, where the bowel becomes reliant to the medication for a normal bowel movement. This in the most extreme cases can lead to toxic megacolon, requiring surgical removal of the colon and an ileostomy.