Diphenylmethane derivative converted by colonic bacteria to its active form, which directly stimulates myenteric plexus nerve endings, increasing colonic peristalsis and promoting fluid and electrolyte secretion into the lumen.
At a glance
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C, protect from humidity
Dosing
Used for constipation and pre-endoscopy bowel prep (with other cathartics)
Frequency
Once; may repeat in 12–24h if needed
Used for constipation and obstipation
Safety
Stool frequency and consistencyHydration statusElectrolytes with repeated use
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Bisacodyl?
Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative used in pets. Diphenylmethane derivative converted by colonic bacteria to its active form, which directly stimulates myenteric plexus nerve endings, increasing colonic peristalsis and promoting fluid and electrolyte secretion into the lumen.
›What is Bisacodyl used for in pets?
Bisacodyl is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for constipation and pre-endoscopy bowel prep (with other cathartics); Used for constipation and obstipation.
›What is the Bisacodyl dose for dogs?
For dogs, Bisacodyl is typically dosed as follows — Used for constipation and pre-endoscopy bowel prep (with other cathartics): 5–20 mg/dog PO/Rectal Once; may repeat in 12–24h if needed. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Bisacodyl dose for cats?
For cats, Bisacodyl is typically dosed as follows — Used for constipation and obstipation: undefined undefined PO/Rectal Once. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Bisacodyl need a prescription?
Bisacodyl is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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