The Basics
What is Bisacodyl?
Used as a stimulant laxative drug typically prescribed for relief of episodic and chronic constipation and for the management of neurogenic bowel dysfunction, as well as part of bowel preparation before medical examinations, such as for a colonoscopy.
Brand names for Bisacodyl
Bisa-Lax, Ducodyl, Women’s Laxative (Bisacodyl), Fleet Laxative, Dulcolax
How Bisacodyl is classified
Cathartics, Gastrointestinal Agents
Bisacodyl During Pregnancy
Bisacodyl pregnancy category
Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Bisacodyl while pregnant
Is bisacodyl safe in pregnancy? Relevant published information about bisacodyl and pregnancy was not found as of the revision date.
Taking Bisacodyl While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Bisacodyl?
Bisacodyl is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and its active metabolite, which is absorbed, is not detectable in breastmilk. Bisacodyl can be taken during breastfeeding and no special precautions are required.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Bisacodyl is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and its active metabolite, which is absorbed, is not detectable in breastmilk. Bisacodyl can be taken during breastfeeding and no special precautions are required.
Possible effects of Bisacodyl on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Bisacodyl
Docusate, Magnesium Hydroxide, Psyllium, Senna.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Friedrich C, Richter E, Trommeshauser D et al. Lack of excretion of the active moiety of bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate into human breast milk: an open-label, parallel group, multiple dose study in healthy lactating women. Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 2011;26:458-64. PMID: 21697613
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
