Bisacodyl

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Apr 28, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Bisacodyl


How many bisacodyl 5 mg can I take?

Adults and children 12 years of age and older can take 1-3 tablets of bisacodyl 5 mg per day. Children 6-11 years of age can take 1 bisacodyl 5 mg tablet once a day. Talk to your child’s doctor for the appropriate bisacodyl dosage in children younger than 6 years.



Why is bisacodyl taken at night?

Bisacodyl tablets take 6-12 hours to work. Taking them at night produces a bowel movement in the morning. The rectal suppository works within an hour and can be used for more immediate results.



Can I eat and drink after taking bisacodyl?

You can eat and drink after taking bisacodyl. However, avoid consuming dairy products such as milk within one hour or taking bisacodyl because they can affect the coating of the tablets.



How long can you take bisacodyl?

You should not take bisacodyl for more than one week without your doctor’s approval. Prolonged use of this medication can lead to laxative dependence.



What is the safest stool softener for daily use?

A bulk laxative (fiber supplement) such as Citrucel or Metamucil is a gentle laxative and is generally safe for long-term use.



What is the price of bisacodyl without insurance?

Without insurance, bisacodyl can be as high as $14.80, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $4.04 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of bisacodyl with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on bisacodyl—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for bisacodyl. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.