Dulcolax Adult 5mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets (20 Pack) are a stimulant laxative used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation in adults aged 18 years and over.

Containing bisacodyl 5mg per tablet, Dulcolax works by stimulating bowel movements to help restore regularity when constipation makes passing stools difficult or less frequent than usual.

Constipation can occur when the movement of waste through the bowel slows down. This may result in fewer bowel movements, hard or difficult-to-pass stools, straining and an uncomfortable feeling of fullness or bloating.

Dulcolax Adult Tablets provide a short-term treatment option when changes to diet, fluid intake, physical activity or bulk-forming treatments have not provided sufficient relief.

The gastro-resistant tablets are designed to pass through the stomach before releasing their active ingredient in the intestine.

Taken at bedtime, Dulcolax tablets generally produce a bowel movement the following morning, usually within 6–12 hours.

How Does Dulcolax Work?

Dulcolax contains bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative that acts on the large intestine.

Bisacodyl stimulates the muscles of the bowel, encouraging the natural movements that help push stools through the digestive tract. It also promotes the accumulation of water and electrolytes within the bowel, helping stools pass more easily.

Unlike bulk-forming laxatives, which increase stool bulk, or osmotic laxatives, which draw water into the bowel, bisacodyl works primarily by stimulating bowel activity.

Each gastro-resistant tablet contains 5mg bisacodyl.

Benefits of Dulcolax Adult 5mg Tablets

Short-Term Constipation Relief

Dulcolax is intended to relieve occasional constipation when bowel movements have become infrequent or difficult.

Overnight Action

The tablets are generally taken at bedtime, with a bowel movement expected the following morning.

Stimulant Laxative Formula

Bisacodyl helps stimulate the bowel muscles and encourage the passage of stools.

Convenient Tablet Format

The 20-tablet pack provides an oral treatment option without needing to prepare a powder or liquid.

Adjustable Adult Dose

Adults can start with one 5mg tablet and increase to two tablets if necessary, without exceeding the recommended maximum.

What Is Dulcolax Used For?

Dulcolax Adult 5mg Tablets are used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation.

Constipation may involve passing stools less frequently than usual, difficulty passing stools, straining or feeling that the bowel has not emptied completely.

Changes in routine, low fibre intake, insufficient fluids, reduced physical activity and certain medicines can contribute to constipation.

Dulcolax helps relieve the symptom of constipation but does not address every possible underlying cause.

Who Can Use Dulcolax Adult Tablets?

Dulcolax Adult 5mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets are suitable for adults aged 18 years and over.

They are intended for occasional, short-term use rather than daily long-term treatment.

Important: This Adult 20-tablet product must not be given to anyone under 18. A separately licensed Dulcolax Twelve Plus product exists for younger patients, subject to pharmacy advice.

When Should Dulcolax Not Be Used?

Do not take Dulcolax Adult Tablets if you have a bowel obstruction, ileus, severe dehydration, acute inflammatory bowel disease, suspected appendicitis or severe abdominal pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Do not take the tablets if you are allergic to bisacodyl or any other ingredient.

Speak to a pharmacist or doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or experiencing persistent or unexplained constipation.

Possible Side Effects

Like all medicines, Dulcolax can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Possible effects include abdominal cramps, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea and nausea.

Dizziness or fainting may also occur.

Excessive or prolonged use can cause dehydration and disturbances in electrolyte levels, including low potassium.

Stop taking the medicine and seek medical advice if you experience severe symptoms, significant dehydration or an unexpected reaction.

Supporting Healthy Bowel Regularity

Alongside short-term constipation treatment, everyday measures may help maintain regular bowel movements.

These include eating a balanced diet containing fibre-rich foods, drinking adequate fluids, staying physically active and allowing time to use the toilet when needed.

If constipation is frequent or requires regular laxative treatment, speak to a healthcare professional to investigate the cause.