Dulcolax Pico 5mg/5ml Liquid 300ml

What is Dulcolax Pico 5mg/5ml Liquid 300ml?

Dulcolax Pico is a tutti-frutti flavoured liquid laxative containing sodium picosulfate. It is for the short-term relief of occasional constipation in adults and children aged 12 and over. The dose is one to two 5ml spoonfuls taken at night, which usually produces a bowel movement the following morning.

How does it help?

Sodium picosulfate is a stimulant laxative. It travels through the stomach and small bowel unchanged, and bacteria in the large bowel convert it into its active form. That active form stimulates the muscles of the bowel wall to move stools along and helps water stay in the stool so it is softer and easier to pass. Because of this, it takes several hours to work, which is why it is taken at bedtime.

Key benefits

• Taken at night and usually works by the next morning, so the timing is predictable
• A liquid you can measure to the dose that suits you, from one to two 5ml spoonfuls
• Suitable for adults and children from age 12
• Intended for short-term, occasional use rather than a daily routine

Who should take care?

Always read the patient information leaflet before use. This is for occasional, short-term use: if you need a laxative every day for more than a few days, speak to our pharmacist or your GP so the cause of the constipation can be looked into, as regular use can upset your body's fluid and salt balance. Do not take it if you have a blockage of the bowel, severe stomach pain (with or without fever, feeling sick or vomiting), an active flare of an inflammatory bowel condition such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, or severe dehydration. Not for children under 12. Contains a small amount of alcohol and paraben preservatives. Do not use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless a doctor has advised it. If you take water tablets (diuretics) or steroid tablets, check with our pharmacist first, and be aware that some antibiotics can make it work less well.