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Detailed medicine guidance

How and when to take or use bisacodyl

NHS medicines information on dosage for bisacodyl, how to use it and what to do if you miss a dose or use too much.

About this information

This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.

How to take or use bisacodyl

How to take tablets

Take bisacodyl tablets once a day just before bedtime.

You can take them with or without food. Swallow tablets whole with water. Do not take them with milk.

Do not take bisacodyl tablets at the same time as:

  • dairy products such as milk, cheese or yoghurt
  • indigestion remedies (antacids)
  • medicines to reduce stomach acid (like proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole or pantoprazole)

Leave a gap of 1 hour between taking any of these and taking your bisacodyl tablets. This is because they will stop the medicine working properly.

How to use suppositories

Read the instructions in the leaflet inside the package. They will explain how to use the suppository.

Take the wrapping off and push a suppository gently into your bottom (anus).

Suppositories work quickly (usually between 10 and 45 minutes), so use it when you are near a toilet.

View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.

Licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0 ↗. MyPHU is independent and is not endorsed by the NHS.

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