Generic name: magnesium hydroxide [ mag-nee-see-um-hye-drock-side ]
Drug class: Antacids, Laxatives
Availability: Rx and/or otc
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Ex-lax milk of magnesia, Milk of magnesia, Pedia-lax chewable, Phillips milk of magnesia, Magnesium hydroxide
What is Dulcolax liquid?
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Dulcolax Liquid reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines which may induce bowel movements.
Dulcolax Liquid is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.
Dulcolax Liquid is also used as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.
Dulcolax Liquid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not use Dulcolax Liquid without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
How should I use Dulcolax liquid
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
You may need to shake the oral suspension before each use.
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Take this medicine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
When taken as a laxative, Dulcolax Liquid should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours.
Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Dulcolax Liquid does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this medicine.
Do not use Dulcolax Liquid for longer than 7 days without medical advice.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Before Taking
Do not use Dulcolax Liquid without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Dulcolax Liquid is safe to use if:
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you have kidney disease;
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you are on a low-magnesium diet; or
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you have a sudden change in bowel habits that has been ongoing for longer than 2 weeks.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Dulcolax Liquid is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include severe diarrhea, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, and little or no urination.
What should I avoid while using Dulcolax liquid?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dulcolax liquid side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Dulcolax Liquid may cause serious side effects. Stop using Dulcolax Liquid and call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
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no bowel movement after using the medicine as a laxative;
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rectal bleeding; or
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worsening symptoms.
Common side effects of Dulcolax Liquid may include:
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diarrhea; or
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a decreased sense of taste.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Dulcolax liquid Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Dulcolax liquid?
Other drugs may affect Dulcolax Liquid, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.