Picrolax

Picrolax is a generic medication used to treat constipation. It is available as a tablet, capsule, or liquid suspension. Picrolax is also available as a suppository.

Picrolax works by softening the stool and increasing the number of bowel movements. It is also thought to increase the amount of water in the intestine, which helps to soften the stool.

Picrolax is generally well-tolerated, but side effects can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and flatulence. Picrolax is contraindicated in pregnant women and nursing mothers.

How to take Picrolax

Picrolax is taken orally, with or without food. The usual adult dose is 10-20 mg once daily. Picrolax can be taken as a tablet, capsule, or liquid suspension. Picrolax is also available as a suppository.

To use the suppository, insert it into the rectum with the pointed end first. The suppository will melt and release the medication. Do not attempt to remove the suppository once it has been inserted.

Side effects of Picrolax

Picrolax is generally well-tolerated, but side effects can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and flatulence. Picrolax is contraindicated in pregnant women and nursing mothers.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common side effect of picrolax. It is most likely to occur when picrolax is first started. Diarrhea usually resolves within a few days of starting picrolax. If diarrhea persists, picrolax should be discontinued.

Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is a common side effect of picrolax. It is most likely to occur when picrolax is first started. Pain usually resolves within a few days of starting picrolax. If pain persists, picrolax should be discontinued.

Flatulence

Flatulence is a common side effect of picrolax. It is most likely to occur when picrolax is first started. Flatulence usually resolves within a few days of starting picrolax. If flatulence persists, picrolax should be discontinued.

Pregnancy and lactation

Picrolax is contraindicated in pregnant women and nursing mothers. Picrolax should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Picrolax is not known to be excreted in human milk. Picrolax should not be used during lactation unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the infant.

Storage

Picrolax should be stored at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F).

Overdose

There is no specific antidote for picrolax overdose. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered if the overdose is recent and the patient is asymptomatic. Hemodialysis is not effective in removing picrolax from the body.

For more information

Please see the full prescribing information for Picrolax.

Picrolax full prescribing information