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Dulcolax Pico Liquid Laxative (Sodium Picosulfate) 5mg/5ml Oral Solution – 300ml

Dulcolax Pico Liquid Laxative (Sodium Picosulfate) 5mg/5ml Oral Solution – 300ml

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  • ✔️ Relieves occasional constipation within 10 to 14 hours
  • ✔️ Stimulant laxative action targets the bowel directly
  • ✔️ Liquid format ideal for those who cannot swallow tablets
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 4 years and over
  • ✔️ Measurable 5mg/5ml dose for accurate, consistent treatment

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What Is Sodium Picosulfate Liquid and How Does It Relieve Constipation?

 

Constipation is something most people experience at some point — and it can be genuinely uncomfortable. Dulcolax Pico Liquid Laxative is an oral solution containing sodium picosulfate liquid at a concentration of 5mg per 5ml, presented in a 300ml bottle. It is a well-established, clinically recognised stimulant laxative used to relieve occasional constipation in adults and children aged 4 years and over. The NHS notes that constipation is common and can often be managed with lifestyle changes and short-term laxative use. If you are looking for a gentle, measurable liquid option, this product offers a practical alternative to tablets. You can browse our full range of constipation treatments to find the right option for your needs.

The liquid format makes dosing straightforward — particularly useful for those who struggle to swallow tablets, or for children who need a carefully measured dose. At £11.99 for 300ml, it also represents good value for a product that can provide multiple doses over a treatment course.

 

How Does Dulcolax Pico Liquid Work to Relieve Constipation?

 

Sodium picosulfate works as a stimulant laxative. Unlike bulk-forming or osmotic laxatives, it acts directly on the bowel wall. Here is how the process works:

  • After you swallow the liquid, sodium picosulfate passes through the stomach largely unchanged.
  • In the colon, gut bacteria convert it into an active metabolite called BHPM (bis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-2-methane).
  • BHPM stimulates the smooth muscle of the large intestine, increasing peristaltic contractions — the wave-like movements that push stool along.
  • It also reduces water absorption from the colon, softening the stool and making it easier to pass.
  • The result is typically a bowel movement within 10 to 14 hours of taking the dose.

Because it acts locally in the colon rather than being significantly absorbed into the bloodstream, sodium picosulfate is considered to have a targeted mechanism of action for constipation relief.

 

Who Is Dulcolax Pico Liquid Suitable For?

 

This product is suitable for a range of people experiencing occasional constipation. It is particularly well-suited to those who prefer a liquid formulation over tablets or capsules. Suitable users include:

  • Adults and elderly patients experiencing occasional constipation
  • Children aged 4 years and over (with age-appropriate dosing)
  • People who find tablets difficult to swallow
  • Those who need a flexible, measurable dose

It is not suitable for everyone. People with intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe abdominal pain should not use this product without first speaking to a doctor. 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.

 

How Does Dulcolax Pico Liquid Compare to Other Laxative Options?

 

Feature Dulcolax Pico Liquid (Sodium Picosulfate) Lactulose Oral Solution
Laxative type Stimulant Osmotic
Onset of action 10–14 hours 24–48 hours
Suitable for children Yes, aged 4 and over Yes, all ages (with guidance)
Mechanism Stimulates bowel muscle contractions Draws water into the bowel

 

How Should You Store Dulcolax Pico Liquid and Is It Clinically Appropriate for You?

 

Store Dulcolax Pico Liquid below 25°C, away from direct light, and keep it out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the label. Once opened, check the patient information leaflet for any specific in-use storage guidance. If you are also managing symptoms such as bloating or cramping alongside constipation, you may find it helpful to explore our IBS and cramps range for complementary options.

Clinically, sodium picosulfate liquid is appropriate for short-term use in otherwise healthy adults and children aged 4 and over. It should not be used continuously for more than 5 days without medical advice. If constipation is persistent or accompanied by unexplained weight loss, rectal bleeding, or significant abdominal pain, you should consult your GP rather than self-treating.

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 Pico Liquid Laxative (Sodium Picosulfate) 5mg/5ml Oral Solution – 300ml specifications
Treatment category Constipation relief
Mechanism of action Stimulant laxative — stimulates colonic peristalsis and reduces water absorption
Effective Within 10–14 hours of dosing
Suitable for Adults and children aged 4 years and over
Active ingredient Sodium Picosulfate 5mg/5ml
Pack size 300ml
Strength 5mg/5ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL) / Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Stimulant laxative
Preparation Oral solution
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Dulcolax Pico Liquid Laxative (Sodium Picosulfate) 5mg/5ml Oral Solution – 300ml

 

What Is Dulcolax Pico Liquid and What Is It Used For?

 

Dulcolax Pico Liquid Laxative is an oral solution containing sodium picosulfate 5mg per 5ml. It belongs to a class of medicines called stimulant laxatives and is used to relieve occasional constipation in adults and children aged 4 years and over. Constipation is defined by the NHS as passing fewer than three stools per week, or passing stools that are hard, dry, or difficult to pass. This product helps to restore normal bowel function by stimulating the muscles of the large intestine to contract more effectively.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

 

Before using this product, read the following carefully. Do not use Dulcolax Pico Liquid if any of the following apply to you:

  • You have a known allergy to sodium picosulfate or any other ingredient in the product
  • You have or suspect you have an intestinal obstruction or ileus (bowel blockage)
  • You have severe dehydration
  • You have been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) — seek medical advice first
  • You are experiencing unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — consult your doctor or midwife before use
  • The patient is a child under 4 years of age

The following medicines may interact with sodium picosulfate. Tell your pharmacist if you are taking:

  • Antibiotics — these may reduce the effectiveness of sodium picosulfate by altering gut bacteria
  • Diuretics (water tablets) — concurrent use may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance
  • Other laxatives — avoid using multiple laxatives simultaneously without medical advice

 

How Should You Use Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

 

Always use this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. The liquid should be measured carefully using the measuring device provided or a calibrated oral syringe.

  1. Shake the bottle gently before use if instructed on the label.
  2. Measure the correct dose using the measuring cup or oral syringe provided.
  3. Take the dose orally — it can be taken with or without water.
  4. Take the dose at bedtime to allow the medicine to work overnight, producing a bowel movement the following morning.
  5. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to support bowel function.
  6. Do not exceed the recommended dose for your age group.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum Duration
Adults and children aged 10 and over 5ml (5mg) Once daily at night Up to 5 days
Children aged 4–9 years 2.5ml (2.5mg) Once daily at night Up to 5 days
Children under 4 years Not recommended

If you are also experiencing symptoms that may be related to digestive health more broadly, our indigestion range may offer additional support alongside constipation treatment.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

 

Like all medicines, Dulcolax Pico Liquid can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild and related to the medicine's action on the bowel.

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

  • Abdominal cramps or pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal discomfort or bloating

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

  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness or feeling faint (particularly if dehydrated)
  • Electrolyte disturbances with prolonged use (such as low potassium)
  • Rectal irritation

Stop using the product and seek medical advice if you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat. For children, if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 5 days, consult a GP. You can also explore our diarrhoea range if loose stools become a concern during treatment.

 

How Should You Store Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine 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 Pico Liquid online in the UK?

You can buy Dulcolax Pico Liquid Laxative 300ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter medicine. Browse our full constipation range for more options.

How does sodium picosulfate liquid work in the body?

Sodium picosulfate is converted by bacteria in the colon into an active compound that stimulates the smooth muscle of the bowel wall, increasing peristaltic contractions. It also reduces water reabsorption from the colon, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass. The result is typically a bowel movement within 10 to 14 hours.

How long does Dulcolax Pico Liquid take to work?

Dulcolax Pico Liquid typically produces a bowel movement within 10 to 14 hours of taking a dose. This is why most people take it at bedtime, so it works overnight and produces a result the following morning. Individual response times may vary slightly depending on diet, hydration, and the severity of constipation.

What is the correct dose of Dulcolax Pico Liquid for adults?

The standard adult dose is 5ml (equivalent to 5mg of sodium picosulfate) taken once daily, usually at night. You should always measure the dose carefully using the measuring device provided. Do not exceed the recommended dose, and do not use for more than 5 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or GP.

Can children take Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

Yes, Dulcolax Pico Liquid is suitable for children aged 4 years and over, using a reduced dose of 2.5ml (2.5mg) once daily at night. Children under 4 years of age should not use this product. If your child's constipation does not improve within 5 days, consult your GP.

What is the best time to take Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

The best time to take Dulcolax Pico Liquid is at bedtime, as it typically takes 10 to 14 hours to work. Taking it in the evening means you are likely to have a bowel movement the following morning, which fits naturally into most people's daily routines. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to support the medicine's action.

What are the common side effects of Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

The most common side effects include abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, nausea, and bloating. These are usually mild and tend to resolve once the bowel has moved. If you experience severe abdominal pain or blood in your stool, stop using the product and seek medical advice promptly.

How do I manage side effects of Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

Mild abdominal cramps are a normal response to stimulant laxatives and usually pass quickly. Staying well hydrated helps reduce the risk of dizziness and electrolyte disturbance. If diarrhoea becomes troublesome, you can explore our diarrhoea range for supportive treatments, and speak to your pharmacist if symptoms persist.

Can I use Dulcolax Pico Liquid during pregnancy?

You should speak to your doctor or midwife before using Dulcolax Pico Liquid during pregnancy. Stimulant laxatives are generally not the first choice during pregnancy, and your healthcare provider may recommend a safer alternative such as a bulk-forming laxative. Do not self-treat constipation in pregnancy without professional guidance.

Who should not use Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

This product is not suitable for people with intestinal obstruction, severe dehydration, or inflammatory bowel disease without medical supervision. It should also not be used by children under 4 years of age. If you have unexplained abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or have not had a bowel movement for an extended period, see your GP before using any laxative.

How long can you use Dulcolax Pico Liquid for?

Dulcolax Pico Liquid should not be used for more than 5 consecutive days without medical advice. Prolonged use of stimulant laxatives can lead to dependence and electrolyte imbalances. If constipation is a recurring problem, speak to your GP about underlying causes and longer-term management strategies.

What happens if I miss a dose of Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

If you forget to take a dose, simply take it the next evening as usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Because this product is used for short-term relief rather than as a daily maintenance medicine, missing a single dose is unlikely to cause any harm.

What are the alternatives to Dulcolax Pico Liquid for constipation?

Alternatives include osmotic laxatives such as lactulose or macrogol (Movicol), bulk-forming laxatives such as ispaghula husk (Fybogel), and stool softeners such as docusate sodium. The NHS recommends trying dietary changes — increasing fibre and fluid intake — before or alongside laxative use. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate option for your situation.

Does Dulcolax Pico Liquid interact with any other medicines?

Yes, antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of sodium picosulfate by altering the gut bacteria needed to activate it. Diuretics (water tablets) taken at the same time may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking before starting this product.

Is there any recent research on sodium picosulfate for constipation?

Sodium picosulfate has been used clinically for decades and is well-established in UK clinical practice, referenced in the British National Formulary (BNF) as a stimulant laxative. The NHS includes it among recommended laxative options for short-term constipation relief. Ongoing clinical guidance continues to support its use within the recommended dosage and duration parameters.

How Should You Use Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

Using Dulcolax Pico Liquid correctly ensures you get the most benefit while minimising the risk of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet before use and follow the steps below carefully.

Here is a step-by-step guide to taking Dulcolax Pico Liquid:

What Is the Correct Dose of Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

The correct dose depends on your age. Always use the lowest effective dose and do not exceed the amounts shown below. If you are unsure which dose applies to you, ask your pharmacist before use.

When Is the Best Time to Use Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

The best time to take Dulcolax Pico Liquid is in the evening, shortly before bed. Because the medicine typically takes 10 to 14 hours to produce a bowel movement, taking it at night means you are likely to experience the effect the following morning — which is far more convenient for most people's daily routines.

Try to take it at roughly the same time each evening if you are using it on consecutive days. Avoid taking it in the morning or afternoon, as this may result in an urgent need to use the toilet at an inconvenient time during the day.

How Long Can You Use Dulcolax Pico Liquid For?

Dulcolax Pico Liquid is intended for short-term use only. You should not use it for more than 5 consecutive days without seeking advice from your GP or pharmacist. Prolonged or excessive use of stimulant laxatives can lead to dependence, reduced bowel function, and electrolyte imbalances.

If constipation persists beyond 5 days, or if it is a recurring problem, speak to your GP. They can investigate any underlying causes and recommend a longer-term management plan, which may include dietary changes, increased physical activity, or a different type of laxative.

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 Pico Liquid?

As with all stimulant laxatives, Dulcolax Pico Liquid can cause side effects in some people. The most common ones are directly related to the medicine's action on the bowel and are usually mild and short-lived.

  • Abdominal cramps or stomach pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal bloating or discomfort

These effects typically resolve once the bowel has moved. Staying well hydrated can help reduce their severity. If cramps are particularly uncomfortable, reducing the dose may help — speak to your pharmacist for guidance.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

Less common side effects occur in fewer people but are still worth being aware of, particularly if you are using the product for several consecutive days.

  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness or light-headedness, particularly if you are dehydrated
  • Electrolyte disturbances (such as low potassium or sodium) with prolonged use
  • Rectal irritation or discomfort
  • Feeling faint when standing up quickly (postural hypotension)

Electrolyte disturbances are more likely if you are also taking diuretics or if you use the product for longer than recommended. Drinking adequate fluids throughout the day significantly reduces this risk.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Dulcolax Pico Liquid?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop using Dulcolax Pico Liquid and seek urgent help if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
  • Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
  • Signs of a serious allergic reaction — including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread skin rash
  • Muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat, which may indicate a significant electrolyte imbalance

These symptoms are uncommon, but they should never be ignored. If you are in any doubt, contact NHS 111 or your GP without delay.

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

For mild side effects such as cramps or loose stools, reducing your fluid intake of caffeinated drinks and increasing plain water consumption can help. If diarrhoea is significant, stop taking the product and allow your bowel to settle before considering further use. You should also report any side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk, which helps improve medicine safety monitoring in the UK.

If you are unsure whether a symptom is related to the medicine, your pharmacist is always a good first point of contact. They can advise whether you should continue, reduce the dose, or stop treatment altogether.

Can Dulcolax Pico Liquid Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of sodium picosulfate by disrupting the gut bacteria that activate the medicine in the colon. If you are prescribed a course of antibiotics, speak to your pharmacist about whether it is appropriate to continue using this product at the same time. Diuretics (water tablets) taken alongside sodium picosulfate may increase the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, so extra caution is needed. Avoid using multiple laxatives simultaneously unless directed by a healthcare professional.

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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