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Dulcolax 5mg Tablets for Constipation, 20 Tablets

Dulcolax 5mg Tablets for Constipation, 20 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Relieves occasional constipation within 6 to 12 hours
  • ✔️ Contains 5mg bisacodyl, a clinically established stimulant laxative
  • ✔️ Enteric-coated tablets reduce risk of stomach irritation
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 4 years and over
  • ✔️ Pack of 20 tablets for convenient short-term constipation relief

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Are Dulcolax 5mg Tablets Effective Bisacodyl Tablets for Constipation?

 

Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints in the UK, affecting around one in seven adults at any given time. It can leave you feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and frankly miserable. Bisacodyl tablets for constipation — sold under the well-known brand name Dulcolax — offer a clinically established, over-the-counter option for short-term relief. Each tablet contains 5mg of bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative that has been used safely for decades. You can browse our full range of constipation treatments if you'd like to compare your options before deciding.

Dulcolax 5mg tablets are film-coated and enteric-coated, meaning they pass through the stomach intact and dissolve in the intestine. This design helps reduce stomach irritation and ensures the active ingredient reaches where it's needed most. The pack of 20 tablets gives you a practical supply for occasional use, and at just £3.29, it's an accessible choice for most households.

 

How Do Dulcolax 5mg Tablets Work to Relieve Constipation?

 

Bisacodyl works through two complementary mechanisms in the large intestine. Understanding how it acts can help you use it more confidently and set realistic expectations about timing.

  • Stimulates bowel muscle contractions: Bisacodyl acts directly on the nerve endings in the wall of the colon, triggering rhythmic muscle contractions (peristalsis) that push stool towards the rectum.
  • Reduces water reabsorption: It also reduces the amount of water and electrolytes absorbed back from the colon into the body, keeping the stool softer and easier to pass.
  • Enteric coating delays release: The tablet's coating means it dissolves in the small intestine rather than the stomach, reducing the risk of nausea or gastric irritation.
  • Onset within 6–12 hours: Most people experience a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours of taking the tablet, making bedtime dosing a popular and practical choice.

 

Who Should Use Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

 

These tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 4 years and over who are experiencing occasional constipation. They are particularly useful when you need reliable, predictable relief — for example, before a medical procedure, after surgery, or when dietary changes haven't been enough. That said, they are intended for short-term use only.

  • Adults experiencing occasional or short-term constipation
  • Children aged 4 and over (under medical supervision for younger children)
  • People preparing for certain medical examinations or procedures
  • Those who have not responded adequately to dietary fibre or fluid increases alone

If your constipation is chronic or you're experiencing other symptoms such as rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or severe abdominal pain, please speak to your GP before using any laxative.

 

How Do Dulcolax Tablets Compare to Other Laxative Options?

 

Feature Dulcolax 5mg (Bisacodyl) Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk)
Type of laxative Stimulant Bulk-forming
Onset of action 6–12 hours 12–72 hours
Suitable for short-term use Yes (up to 5 days) Yes (longer term possible)
Suitable for children aged 4+ Yes Generally 6+ (varies by product)

 

How Should You Store Dulcolax Tablets and Who Should Avoid Them?

 

Store Dulcolax 5mg tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing digestive discomfort related to IBS, you might find our IBS and cramps collection helpful alongside your constipation management plan.

Avoid bisacodyl tablets for constipation if you have an intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), or severe dehydration. They are not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice, and should not be taken alongside antacids or dairy products within one hour of dosing, as these can dissolve the enteric coating prematurely.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Dulcolax 5mg Tablets for Constipation, 20 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Constipation relief
Mechanism of action Stimulant laxative — stimulates colonic peristalsis and reduces water reabsorption
Effective Within 6–12 hours of oral administration
Suitable for Adults and children aged 4 years and over
Active ingredient Bisacodyl 5mg
Pack sizes 20 tablets
Strengths 5mg per tablet
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Stimulant laxative
Preparation Film-coated, enteric-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Dulcolax 5mg Tablets for Constipation, 20 Tablets

 

What Is Dulcolax 5mg and What Is It Used For?

 

Dulcolax 5mg tablets contain bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative used to treat occasional constipation in adults and children aged 4 and over. Constipation is generally defined as passing fewer than three stools per week, or passing stools that are hard, dry, and difficult to expel. Dulcolax works by stimulating the muscles of the bowel to move stool along more efficiently. It is available over the counter without a prescription and is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

 

Before taking Dulcolax, it's important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not take these tablets if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to bisacodyl or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • You have a bowel obstruction or ileus (paralysis of the bowel)
  • You have inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
  • You have severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting of unknown cause
  • You are severely dehydrated
  • You have a rare hereditary condition such as galactose intolerance
  • You are pregnant (seek medical advice first)
  • The child is under 4 years of age

The following medicines and substances may interact with Dulcolax tablets:

  • Antacids and milk: Do not take within one hour of Dulcolax — they can dissolve the enteric coating too early, causing stomach irritation
  • Diuretics and corticosteroids: Concurrent use may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance, particularly low potassium
  • Digoxin and antiarrhythmics: Electrolyte disturbances caused by laxative overuse may affect how these medicines work

 

How Should You Use Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

 

Always use Dulcolax exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water — do not chew or crush them, as this will damage the enteric coating.

  1. Take the tablet(s) whole with a full glass of water
  2. Do not take within one hour of consuming milk, antacids, or dairy products
  3. Take at bedtime for a bowel movement the following morning
  4. Do not exceed the maximum recommended daily dose
  5. Do not use for more than 5 consecutive days without medical advice
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Occasional constipation Adults and children 10+ 1–2 tablets (5–10mg) Once daily at night
Occasional constipation Children aged 4–9 1 tablet (5mg) Once daily at night
Bowel preparation (medical) Adults As directed by clinician As directed

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, Dulcolax can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you're also managing other gut-related symptoms, our IBS and cramps range may offer additional support.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Abdominal cramps or pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Discomfort in the rectum

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Dizziness or feeling faint (particularly when standing up quickly)
  • Vomiting
  • Blood in the stool (if this occurs, stop use and seek medical advice promptly)
  • Electrolyte imbalance with prolonged use — symptoms include muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or excessive thirst

 

How Should You Store Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of your tablets. If you're ordering other health products alongside your Dulcolax, you can also explore our vitamins and supplements collection for general digestive and gut health support.

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Dulcolax 5mg tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Dulcolax 5mg tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, without a prescription. They are classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, so no consultation is required for healthy adults. Simply add them to your basket and they'll be dispatched promptly to your door.

How do bisacodyl tablets for constipation work in the body?

Bisacodyl stimulates the nerve endings in the wall of the large intestine, triggering muscle contractions that push stool towards the rectum. It also reduces the reabsorption of water from the colon, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass. These two actions work together to produce a bowel movement, typically within 6 to 12 hours.

How long do Dulcolax 5mg tablets take to work?

Most people experience a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours of taking Dulcolax 5mg tablets orally. Because of this timing, taking the tablet at bedtime is a common approach, as it tends to produce a result the following morning. Individual response times can vary depending on factors such as diet, hydration, and the severity of constipation.

What is the correct dose of Dulcolax 5mg for adults?

The recommended adult dose is 1 to 2 tablets (5mg to 10mg) taken once daily, preferably at night. You should not exceed 2 tablets in any 24-hour period unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional. Always swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water — do not chew or crush them.

Can children take Dulcolax 5mg tablets?

Dulcolax 5mg tablets are suitable for children aged 4 years and over, with a dose of 1 tablet (5mg) taken once daily at night. Children under 4 years should not use these tablets. For children aged 4 to 9, it is advisable to use under the guidance of a pharmacist or GP, particularly if constipation is persistent or recurrent.

Can I take Dulcolax tablets during pregnancy?

Dulcolax tablets are not recommended during pregnancy without first seeking medical advice, particularly during the first trimester. Stimulant laxatives can cause uterine contractions in some cases. If you are pregnant and struggling with constipation, speak to your GP or midwife, who may recommend a safer alternative such as lactulose or a bulk-forming laxative.

What are the most common side effects of Dulcolax 5mg tablets?

The most commonly reported side effects include abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, nausea, and rectal discomfort. These are generally mild and resolve once the bowel has moved. If you experience severe pain, blood in your stool, or symptoms that persist beyond a day or two, stop taking the tablets and consult your pharmacist or GP.

How long can you use Dulcolax tablets for?

Dulcolax tablets should not be used for more than 5 consecutive days without medical advice. Prolonged or excessive use of stimulant laxatives can lead to laxative dependence, electrolyte imbalances, and reduced bowel function over time. If your constipation is ongoing, speak to your GP to identify and address the underlying cause.

What should I avoid when taking Dulcolax tablets?

Do not take Dulcolax within one hour of consuming milk, dairy products, or antacids, as these can dissolve the enteric coating prematurely and cause stomach irritation. Avoid chewing or crushing the tablets for the same reason. You should also avoid taking them alongside diuretics or corticosteroids without medical supervision, as this combination may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance.

What happens if I miss a dose of Dulcolax?

If you forget to take a dose, simply take it the next evening as usual — do not double up to make up for a missed dose. Dulcolax is intended for occasional, short-term use rather than a strict daily regimen, so missing a single dose is unlikely to cause any problems. If constipation continues despite regular use, seek advice from your pharmacist.

What are alternatives to Dulcolax for constipation?

There are several types of laxative available for constipation, and the right one depends on your symptoms and circumstances. Bulk-forming laxatives such as ispaghula husk (Fybogel) are often recommended as a first-line option, while osmotic laxatives like macrogol or lactulose are also widely used. You can explore the full range of options in our constipation treatments collection.

Is Dulcolax suitable for people with IBS?

Dulcolax is not generally recommended as a first-line treatment for constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as stimulant laxatives can sometimes worsen cramping and bloating in IBS sufferers. If you have IBS-related constipation, speak to your GP or pharmacist about more suitable options. You can also browse our IBS and cramps range for relevant products.

Can I take Dulcolax tablets with other medicines?

Dulcolax can interact with certain medicines, including diuretics, corticosteroids, digoxin, and antiarrhythmic drugs, particularly if used excessively, because of the risk of electrolyte disturbance. Antacids and milk should not be taken within one hour of Dulcolax. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking before starting a new treatment.

What is the best time to take Dulcolax 5mg tablets?

The most practical time to take Dulcolax 5mg tablets is at bedtime, as the tablets typically take 6 to 12 hours to produce a bowel movement. This means you are likely to experience the effect the following morning, which fits naturally into most people's routines. Avoid taking them with or immediately after a meal that includes dairy or antacids.

Are there any latest studies or research on bisacodyl for constipation?

Bisacodyl has been used clinically for over 60 years and its efficacy and safety profile are well established in published literature. More recent research has continued to confirm its effectiveness for short-term constipation relief and bowel preparation before procedures. The NHS and BNF both recognise bisacodyl as a standard stimulant laxative option for appropriate patients.

How Should You Use Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

Dulcolax 5mg tablets should always be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Never chew, crush, or break the tablets, as this damages the enteric coating and can cause stomach irritation rather than the intended intestinal action.

What Is the Correct Dose of Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

The dose varies depending on age. Always follow the dosage instructions in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not give to children under 4 years of age.

When Is the Best Time to Use Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

The most practical time to take Dulcolax is at bedtime. Because the tablets typically take 6 to 12 hours to produce a bowel movement, a bedtime dose usually results in a natural bowel movement the following morning. Avoid taking them immediately after a meal that includes dairy or antacids, as this can interfere with the enteric coating.

How Long Can You Use Dulcolax 5mg Tablets For?

Dulcolax 5mg tablets are intended for short-term use only and should not be taken for more than 5 consecutive days without medical advice. If constipation persists beyond this period, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires investigation by your GP. Long-term or excessive use of stimulant laxatives can lead to dependence, reduced bowel muscle tone, and electrolyte disturbances — so it's important to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

Most people tolerate Dulcolax 5mg tablets well when used as directed. However, as with all medicines, side effects can occur. The most frequently reported ones are related to the bowel and digestive system, and they are usually mild and short-lived.

  • Abdominal cramps or stomach pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Rectal discomfort or irritation

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

Less commonly, some people may experience more noticeable effects, particularly if the tablets are taken incorrectly or for longer than recommended. If any of the following occur, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness or feeling faint, especially when standing up quickly (postural hypotension)
  • Blood in the stool — seek medical advice promptly if this occurs
  • Excessive thirst or muscle weakness, which may indicate electrolyte imbalance
  • Skin rash or allergic reaction (rare)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Dulcolax 5mg Tablets?

Serious side effects are uncommon when Dulcolax is used correctly and for short periods. However, prolonged or excessive use can lead to electrolyte imbalances — particularly low potassium (hypokalaemia) — which can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and in severe cases, irregular heartbeat. If you experience chest palpitations, severe muscle weakness, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Dulcolax?

If you experience mild side effects such as cramping or loose stools, these usually resolve on their own once the bowel has moved. Staying well hydrated can help. If side effects are severe, persistent, or concern you in any way, stop taking the tablets and contact your pharmacist or GP for advice. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Dulcolax 5mg Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes, Dulcolax can interact with certain medicines. Antacids and dairy products taken within one hour of the tablet can dissolve the enteric coating prematurely, causing gastric irritation. Concurrent use with diuretics or corticosteroids may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance. If you are taking digoxin or antiarrhythmic medicines, electrolyte disturbances caused by laxative overuse could affect how those medicines work. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking before starting Dulcolax.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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