Side Effects of bisacodyl: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Bisacodyl is a medication widely used to treat constipation. Many studies have shown that bisacodyl is effective in improving constipation. 11 Bisacodyl works by stimulating the bowel to move and soften the stool. 3 2 Bisacodyl has also been shown to be more effective than other constipation medications. 21 14 Additionally, studies suggest that bisacodyl may have fewer side effects compared to other constipation medications. 12 24 4

Reasons for Side Effects

Side effects of bisacodyl are believed to occur because its action of stimulating bowel movement is too strong. 3 1 Bisacodyl can also lead to diarrhea by reducing the bowel's ability to absorb water. 1

Common Side Effects

Diarrhea

Bisacodyl, due to its strong bowel-stimulating effect, can cause diarrhea. 3 1 Reports indicate that approximately 10% of patients taking bisacodyl experience diarrhea. 24

Abdominal Pain

Bisacodyl's potent action on bowel movements can lead to abdominal pain. 3 Studies suggest that about 5% of patients taking bisacodyl experience abdominal pain. 24

Nausea

Bisacodyl, due to its strong effect on bowel movement, can cause nausea. 3 Reports indicate that around 2% of patients using bisacodyl experience nausea. 24

Dehydration

Bisacodyl can cause dehydration as it reduces the bowel's ability to absorb water. 1 Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, dizziness, headache, and fatigue. 1

Electrolyte Imbalance

Bisacodyl can disrupt the balance of electrolytes in the bowel. 1 Electrolyte imbalances can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities, muscle cramps, and altered consciousness. 1

Bowel Obstruction

Bisacodyl can excessively stimulate bowel movement, potentially causing bowel obstruction. 1 Bowel obstruction presents with symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. 1

Side Effect Management

Diarrhea

If you experience severe diarrhea, discontinue bisacodyl and consult a doctor. 3 Adequate hydration is crucial. 1 Taking antidiarrheal medications can also be helpful. 1

Abdominal Pain

If you experience severe abdominal pain, discontinue bisacodyl and consult a doctor. 3

Nausea

If you experience severe nausea, discontinue bisacodyl and consult a doctor. 3

Dehydration

If you develop symptoms of dehydration, discontinue bisacodyl and consult a doctor. 1 Adequate hydration is essential. 1

Electrolyte Imbalance

If you develop symptoms of electrolyte imbalance, discontinue bisacodyl and consult a doctor. 1

Bowel Obstruction

If you experience symptoms of bowel obstruction, discontinue bisacodyl and consult a doctor immediately. 1

Comparison Between Studies

Commonalities

Numerous studies have indicated that bisacodyl is effective in improving constipation. 11 3 2 Furthermore, several studies suggest that bisacodyl is more effective than other constipation medications. 21 14

Differences

While some studies indicate that bisacodyl has fewer side effects than other constipation medications, this is not consistent across all studies. 12 24 4

Considerations for Real-Life Application

Bisacodyl is an effective medication for treating constipation, but it does carry the risk of side effects. 11 3 2 When taking bisacodyl, it's important to carefully follow your doctor's instructions and consult them immediately if you experience any side effects. 11 3 2

Limitations of Current Research

Research on bisacodyl is still limited in scope. 11 3 2 In particular, there is a lack of research on the long-term use of bisacodyl. 2

Future Research Directions

Research on the long-term use of bisacodyl and ways to mitigate its side effects is needed. 2

Conclusion

Bisacodyl is an effective medication for treating constipation, but it does carry the risk of side effects. 11 3 2 When taking bisacodyl, it's important to carefully follow your doctor's instructions and consult them immediately if you experience any side effects. 11 3 2

Literature analysis of 25 papers
Positive Content
23
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
2
Article Type
12
1
2
5
24
1.

Mechanisms of drug-induced diarrhoea in the elderly.

Author: RatnaikeR N, JonesT E

Dehydration
Drug-induced diarrhea
Electrolyte imbalance
Undernutrition

Diarrhea as a result of drug therapy is an important consideration in the elderly population. Drugs can compromise both immune and nonimmune responses, and may cause diarrhea by interfering with normal physiological processes, by mucosal damage, or by osmotic effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

3.

[Treatment of Chronic Functional Constipation during Pregnancy and Lactation].

Author: GharehbaghiK, GharehbaghiD R, WierraniF, SliutzG

Tenesmus

Macrogol and lactulose are recommended as first-line therapies for chronic constipation during pregnancy. Diphenolic laxatives, such as bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate, can be used as second-line treatments.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : German

4.

Combination of bisacodyl suppository and 1 L polyethylene glycol plus ascorbic acid is a non-inferior and comfortable regimen compared to 2 L polyethylene glycol plus ascorbic acid.

Author: KimSun Hwa, KimEun Ran, KimKyunga, KimTae Jun, HongSung Noh, ChangDong Kyung, KimYoung-Ho

Bowel cleansing efficacy
Reduced bowel prep dosage
Patient discomfort

This study compared the efficacy of bowel cleansing with 2L PEG-Asc (control) versus 1L PEG-Asc with bisacodyl suppository (suppository) groups before colonoscopy. The suppository group showed improved bowel cleansing while maintaining tolerability.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

5.

Adjuncts to colonic cleansing before colonoscopy.

Author: ParkSanghoon, LimYun Jeong

Improved bowel cleansing
Drug interactions

This review examines the use of adjunctive agents to improve colonic cleansing effectiveness during colonoscopy preparation. While no single agent has completely overcome limitations of the gold standard method, several promising options, such as bisacodyl, magnesium citrate, senna, simethicone, metoclopramide, and prokinetics, can enhance the efficiency of traditional bowel preparation agents.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

6.

A mannitol-bisacodyl regimen for radiological visualization of the colon.

Author: BurgerS A, SpiesD

Reliable colon preparation
Side effects

A 20% mannitol-bisacodyl solution was found to be an effective and safe method for colon preparation for barium enemas. This regimen was well-tolerated in patients of all ages and races, even those with cardiac or renal failure.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

7.

Colostomy irrigation with prostaglandin E2 and bisacodyl. A double-blind cross-over study.

Author: KjaergaardJ, ChristensenU, StadilF, AndersonB

Colon emptying
Side effects

Neither prostaglandin E2 nor bisacodyl significantly affected colon emptying or side effects in patients with colostomies.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

8.

4-Liter split-dose polyethylene glycol is superior to other bowel preparations, based on systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: EnestvedtBrintha K, TofaniChristina, LaineLoren A, TierneyAnn, FennertyM Brian

Improved bowel cleansing

This meta-analysis examines the effectiveness of different bowel cleansing regimens using polyethylene glycol (PEG) for colonoscopy. It compares the effectiveness of a 4-L split dose of PEG to other methods.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

9.

Ischemic Colitis Secondary to Olanzapine and Clonidine Use in a Patient With a History of Laxative Abuse.

Author: TheodoreBosco C, FoulkrodAshley, FujikawaPriscilla, PatelKashyap

Ischemic colitis treatment

A 39-year-old female with a history of stimulant laxative abuse, chronic constipation, bipolar disorder, and anxiety presented with ischemic colitis. She was taking olanzapine and clonidine. Ischemic colitis was linked to a high stool burden and constipation induced by pharmacological agents.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

10.

Commonly used preparations for colonoscopy: efficacy, tolerability, and safety--a Canadian Association of Gastroenterology position paper.

Author: BarkunAlan, ChibaNaoki, EnnsRobert, MarconMargaret, NatshehSusan, PhamCo, SadowskiDan, VannerStephen

Effective bowel cleansing
Adverse events

Polyethylene glycol (PEG), sodium phosphate (NaP), magnesium citrate (Mg-citrate), and sodium picosulphate, citric acid and magnesium oxide (PSMC) preparations were all effective in bowel cleansing for colonoscopy. Adequate hydration is essential.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

11.

[A Randomized, Double-blind, Active-controlled Exploratory Clinical Trial for the Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Goodmorning S Granule<sup>&#174;</sup> on Constipation].

Author: JuMunjin, KimNayoung, ShinCheol Min, ParkYoung Soo, YoonHyuk, ChoiYonghun, LeeDong Ho

Improved constipation treatment

This study compares the effectiveness and safety of Goodmorning S Granule, a combination of magnesium oxide, senna extract, and dried plum powder, with bisacodyl for the treatment of functional constipation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : Korean

12.

A prospective study to assess the efficacy and patient tolerance of three bowel preparations for colonoscopy.

Author: RapierRoderick, HoustonCarmela

Improved colon cleansing
Patient tolerability

A low-residue diet kit combined with polyethylene glycol electrolyte or magnesium citrate and bisacodyl is effective and well-tolerated for bowel preparation before colonoscopy.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

13.

Randomized Trial of Gatorade/Polyethylene Glycol With or Without Bisacodyl and NuLYTELY for Colonoscopy Preparation.

Author: GerardDavid P, HoldenJohn L, FosterDiane B, RaiserManfred W

Colon cleansing
Abdominal bloating

Gatorade and polyethylene glycol (PEG) preparation was as effective as NuLYTELY in cleansing the colon for colonoscopy and was much better tolerated.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

14.

Randomized study comparing two regimens of oral sodium phosphates solution versus low-dose polyethylene glycol and bisacodyl.

Author: MalikPramod, BalabanDavid H, ThompsonWilliam O, GaltDeborah J B

Cleanses bowel
Improved acceptance

Low-volume bowel preparation regimens were compared for colonoscopy. A 45/45 ml oral sodium phosphate solution and a reduced-dose 45/30 ml solution were compared to polyethylene glycol plus bisacodyl.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

15.

The effect of bisacodyl on whole-gut irrigation in preparation for colonoscopy.

Author: RingsE H, MulderC J, TytgatG N

whole-gut irrigation duration reduction

Bisacodyl pretreatment reduced the duration of whole-gut irrigation with a balanced electrolyte solution (BES) without increasing side effects. Thus, bisacodyl is a useful and cost-effective adjunct for colonic preparation in these patients.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

16.

[Prospective study of preparation for colon double-contrast studies with enemas compared to oral mannitol/Na-picosulfate administration with the same diet].

Author: BlaselU, NeidlK, BlaselE

Better cleansing
Improved coating

An oral mannitol dose plus sodium picosulphate was found to be more effective than enema plus bisacodyl in preparing patients for colon double contrast examination. The mannitol group showed better cleansing results and contrast medium coating. Side effects were not observed.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : German

17.

Efficacy of bowel preparation with the use of a prepackaged, low fibre diet with a low sodium, magnesium citrate cathartic vs. a clear liquid diet with a standard sodium phosphate cathartic.

Author: DeleggeM, KaplanR

Better tolerance
Improved colon cleansing

A prepackaged, low-residue diet (NutraPrep) combined with the LoSo Prep bowel cleansing system (NP-LS regimen) was superior to the double-dose sodium phosphate (Fleet Phospho-soda) regimen (2F regimen) in terms of colon cleansing efficacy and patient tolerance.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

18.

Colonic preparation before colonoscopy in constipated and non-constipated patients: a randomized study.

Author: PereyraLisandro, CimminoDaniel, González MallaCarlos, LaporteMariano, RotholtzNicolás, PeczanCarlos, LencinasSandra, PedreiraSilvia, CatalanoHugo, BoerrLuis

Improved colonic cleansing
Adverse effects

Sodium phosphate (NaP) preparations, especially a half-dose with bisacodyl, had higher compliance than polyethylene glycol (PEG) preparations for colonic cleansing. In non-constipated patients, NaP preparations were more effective and better tolerated. However, in constipated patients, the combination of NaP plus bisacodyl was the most effective preparation.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

19.

Does bowel preparation improve the quality of intravenous urography?

Author: BradleyA J, TaylorP M

Urinary tract visualization
Bowel gas
Side effects

This study found that routine use of laxatives prior to intravenous urography did not significantly improve the quality of images or reduce radiation dose, and may even lead to increased patient inconvenience.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

20.

Prospective randomized study of preoperative bowel cleansing for patients undergoing colorectal surgery.

Author: WoltersU, KellerH W, SorgatzS, RaabA, PichlmaierH

Bowel preparation
Fluid retention
Increased complication rate

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was the most suitable method for bowel preparation in patients undergoing colorectal surgery, as it had the best cleansing effect and was better tolerated than Ringer's lactate or Prepacol.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

21.

A comparison of bowel preparations for flexible sigmoidoscopy: oral magnesium citrate combined with oral bisacodyl, one hypertonic phosphate enema, or two hypertonic phosphate enemas.

Author: FincherR K, OsgardE M, JacksonJ L, StrongJ S, WongR K

Good preparation quality
Tolerated easily
Diarrhea

There was no statistical difference between the quality of three bowel preparations containing magnesium citrate and either oral bisacodyl, one hypertonic phosphate enema, or two hypertonic phosphate enemas. Patients considered the oral bisacodyl and magnesium citrate regimen more easily tolerated, though it was associated with more diarrhea.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

22.

Study of the comparative effectiveness of Dulcolax, Laxadine, Dorbanex, Normacen and Senokot laxatives in the bowel preparation of patients for radiological examinations.

Author: ObisesanA A, OsinaikeI

Bowel preparation
Side effects

Dulcolax was the most effective laxative for bowel preparation in adult patients, but it was also the most expensive and had more side effects. Normacen, which was second most effective and cheap, was considered the first choice.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

23.

A randomized single-blind trial of whole versus split-dose polyethylene glycol-electrolyte solution for colonoscopy preparation.

Author: El SayedAmer M A, KanafaniZeina A, MouradFadi H, SoweidAssaad M, BaradaKassem A, AdorianClarisse S, NasreddineWalid A, ShararaAla I

Improved colonoscopy prep

This study evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of a split-dose polyethylene glycol-electrolyte solution plus bisacodyl and a regular diet for colonoscopy preparation. The regimen was found to be effective and well-tolerated.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

24.

Comparison of acupuncture and other drugs for chronic constipation: A network meta-analysis.

Author: ZhuLingping, MaYunhui, DengXiaoyan

Chronic constipation treatment
Side effects

Acupuncture is more effective than drugs in treating chronic constipation and has the fewest side effects.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Retracted PublicationCases where a publication has been formally withdrawn due to the discovery of serious errors or misconduct.

Language : English

25.

Prospective, randomized comparison of same-day dose of 2 different bowel cleanser for afternoon colonoscopy: picosulfate, magnesium oxide, and citric acid versus polyethylene glycol.

Author: GweonTae-Geun, KimSang Woo, NohYong-Sun, HwangSeawon, KimNa-Young, LeeYoonbum, LeeSoon-Wook, LeeSung Won, LeeJong Yul, LimChul-Hyun, Hun KimHyung, KimJin Su, Kyung ChoYu, Myung ParkJae, Seok LeeIn, Myung-Gyu Choi

Improved bowel cleansing

This study compared the bowel-cleansing efficacy, side effects, and patient's tolerability of a same-day split administration of sodium picosulfate, magnesium oxide, and citric acid (PM/Ca) with polyethylene glycol (PEG) for afternoon colonoscopy. PM/Ca was found to be comparable to PEG in efficacy and was preferred by patients.

Clinical Trial, Phase IIIA Phase III trial is a trial that further rigorously verifies the efficacy and safety of a new drug or treatment, whose efficacy and safety have been confirmed in a Phase II trial, in a large number of patients, and evaluates whether it is superior to existing treatments.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

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