Description:

Dulcolax Twelve Plus Suppositories are a stimulant laxative used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation in adults and children over 12 years. They act directly in the rectum to stimulate bowel muscles, soften stools, and promote a natural bowel movement, usually within 10–30 minutes (up to 60 minutes). They are also suitable for bowel emptying before medical procedures (e.g., surgery or X-ray).

Prescription:

• No prescription required (over-the-counter laxative in most countries, including Ghana; pharmacy-only in some regions—consult your pharmacist).

Therapeutic Category:

• Stimulant laxative / Contact laxative (rectal use for rapid constipation relief).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Bisacodyl 10 mg per suppository. Other ingredients: Hard fat (suppository base).

Variant:

• Standard 10 mg suppository for adults and children over 12 years (Dulcolax Twelve Plus is the adult/12+ version; lower strengths like 5 mg exist for younger children in other Dulcolax lines).

Consume Type:

• Rectal (suppository – insert into the back passage).

Directions/Usage:

• Adults and children over 12 years: Insert 1 suppository (10 mg) rectally once daily as needed.
• Lie on your side, insert the suppository (pointed end first) into the rectum with your finger (use a lubricant if needed).
• Remain lying down for 5–10 minutes to allow it to dissolve and work.
• Do not swallow. Use for short periods only (maximum 5–7 days unless advised by doctor).
• For bowel preparation: Use as directed by your doctor (often 1–2 suppositories the morning of the procedure).

Common Side Effects:

• Abdominal cramps/pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, faintness, rectal burning/irritation, or flatulence. Rare: Electrolyte imbalance (dehydration, low potassium with prolonged use), allergic reactions (rash, itching), or dependence with chronic overuse.

Package Type:

• Foil-wrapped individual suppositories in blister strips; packed in cartons of 6, 10, or 12 suppositories (most common in Ghana: 10s or 12s pack).

Storage Advice:

• Store below 25–30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep in original packaging. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Not for children under 12 years (unless prescribed). Contraindicated in acute abdominal pain of unknown cause, intestinal obstruction, undiagnosed rectal bleeding, severe dehydration, or inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis). Use caution in pregnancy (short-term only), breastfeeding, or elderly (risk of dehydration/electrolyte imbalance). Drink plenty of fluids. Stop and seek medical help if no bowel movement after 3 days, severe cramps, blood in stool, or persistent diarrhea. Not for weight loss. Prolonged daily use may cause dependence or bowel atony—use infrequently.

Product Substitutes:

• Generic Bisacodyl 10 mg suppositories (Exeter, Vega, or other importers in Ghana)
• Fleet Glycerin Suppositories (glycerin-based alternative)
• Dulcolax 10 mg suppositories (standard adult version)
• Other stimulant laxatives: Glycerol suppositories, Senna suppositories, or Sodium picosulfate syrup (Dulcolax Pico). Consult a pharmacist or doctor for suitable alternatives.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

•  Boehringer Ingelheim.

Country of Origin:

• Germany