Dulcoflex 5mg Tablet

Constipation is a prevalent problem among adults nowadays. Along with constipation comes problems like gas, bloating, belching, flatulence, etc., which leads to tough and dry stool.

Dulcoflex® helps soften the stools and regulates bowel function. Dulcoflex® is India’s no. 1 brand for constipation[1]. It gives you gentle overnight relief from constipation within 6-8 hours[2] thus in turn, relieving other symptoms arising due to constipation like gas, bloating, belching, flatulence, etc.

It's a non-habit forming[3] laxative and works only where it's required. It contains Bisacodyl, which works as an active laxative to treat constipation. It helps in the easy passage of stool and regulates bowel function. Dulcoflex® can be used for pre or post-operative treatment. It is recommended to use 1-2 tablets at bedtime [4].

Key ingredients:

Bisacodyl IP: 5 mg

Key benefits/uses of Dulcoflex Tablet:

•  
• Dulcoflex® is India’s No. 1 brand for constipation[1].
• Provides overnight relief from constipation within 6-8 hours[2].
• Is a laxative used for short-term constipation relief
• Helps soften stool and improve bowel movement.
• Is a non-habit-forming laxative [3].

Directions for use:

Take Dulcoflex 5mg Tablet as directed by the physician. In most cases, 1-2 tablets of this medicine should be taken at bedtime [3]. It is recommended to start with the lowest possible dose and then slowly increase the dose to the maximum limit to improve bowel function and promote regular bowel movement.

It is recommended to take the tablet at night to have a proper bowel movement the following day. Swallow this tablet as a whole with the proper amount of water. 

Quick tips for Dulcoflex Tablet:

• It should not be taken together with antacids or proton pump inhibitors (products reducing the acidity of the upper gastrointestinal tract).
• Do not take this medicine with milk or juices as it may affect the efficacy of the medicine.
• Always stay hydrated when taking this medicine as it helps to improve your bowel movement.
• If you are planning to use this medicine, ensure that you use it only to treat occasional constipation and for a short period of time.
• In case you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the scheduled time.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking as they may affect or be affected by this medicine. For example, taking it with diuretics can increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance in the body.
• It is not advised to take this medicine along with other laxatives as it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
• Its use is contraindicated in people with medical conditions such as severe dehydration,  intestinal obstruction, and acute inflammatory bowel disease.
• Read the label carefully before use, and do not exceed the recommended dosage of the tablet.
• If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of this tablet, inform your doctor immediately.
• If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breast-feeding, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medication.

Side effects of Dulcoflex Tablet:

When taken in excess, it can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, stomach pain, and even diarrhea. Prolonged and repeated use of this tablet may lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalance in the body. It can also lead to hypokalemia (low levels of potassium) in some cases. 

Storage and safety information:

• Read the label carefully before use.
• Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of the children.

FAQs related to Dulcoflex Tablet:

Q. What is the Dulcoflex tablet used for?

It is used for the treatment of constipation as it helps to soften the stool. It is helpful in preventing dry and hard stools, enabling its easy passage, and improving your bowel function. This tablet also used for the preparation of diagnostic procedures and in conditions where emptying of the bowels is needed. It is also indicated for use in pre-and post-operative treatment.

Q. How many Dulcoflex tablets should I take?

Take Dulcoflex 5mg Tablet as directed by the physician. In most cases, 1-2 tablets of this medicine should be taken at bedtime [3]. It is recommended to start with the lowest possible dose and then slowly increase the dose to the maximum limit to improve bowel function and promote regular bowel movement.

Q. Can we take Dulcoflex daily?

Similar to all laxatives, this tablet is not recommended to be taken daily for a long period of time. Prolonged and excessive use of this tablet may lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalance and hypokalaemia. In severe cases, it can also put you at risk of extreme dehydration.

Q. Can I take Dulcoflex tablet while breastfeeding?

Yes, Dulcoflex can be taken while breastfeeding if advised by the doctor. 

Q. Can I give Dulcoflex tablet to my child?

Although it is recommended for use in children above 4 years of age, it would be best to consult the doctor regarding its use before giving it to your child.

Q. Will Dulcoflex tablet help me lose weight?

No, there are no studies that state or suggest that this tablet can help with weight loss. This is because the active ingredient of this medicine, bisacodyl, is not effective in altering the digestion or hindering the absorption of calories in the small intestine to aid in weight loss.

Q. Can I use Dulcoflex tablets for piles?

No, Dulcoflex tablet is not helpful in piles. It is suggested for treating short-term constipation. It is important to consult a doctor regarding medication to be used for piles.

Q. Can I take Dulcoflex with milk?

No, it is not advised to take Dulcoflex with milk. This is because the coating of the medicine may get affected when taken along with milk, causing interference in the disintegration of the medicine in the stomach. This interference can even lead to unwanted side effects. Therefore, it should be taken whole with adequate amounts of water or as directed by the doctor.

References:

1. IMS MAT June’21
2. Clinical Gastroenterology And Hepatology 2011;9:577-583,Michael A. Kamm, Stefan Mueller-Lissner, Arnold Wald, Erika Richter, Ros Swallow, And Ulrika Gessner.
3. Friedrich C , Richter E, Trommeshauser D, Kruif SD, Iersel TV, Mandel K, Gessner U. 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 2011b;26(5):458-64.
4. Dulcoflex®  5 mg gastro-resistant tablets SmPC 2017. MAT-IN-2103185-1.0-08/2021
5. Bisacodyl Tablet/Suppository. Dulcoflex.