Sodium Picosulfate 5 MG (SCOLAX)

To ensure this is the right treatment for you, ask for advice from a doctor or pharmacist before you start using sodium picosulfate if any of the following apply to you:-

If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you must take medicine on the prescription of your doctor.

If it is a child, this is because laxatives must only be given to children on the advice of a doctor or healthcare professional

If you have to serve pain in your stomach and feel sick(nausea)

If you have recently had any abdominal or bowel surgery, or if you have been told you have an inflammatory bowel condition.

If you are lacking in fluid in the body or taking “water” tablets(diuretics)

If you are taking any other medicine which includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

If you have any allergic reaction to the medicine in the past

Before you start this treatment, read carefully the manufacturer’s printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more guidance about sodium picosulfate and a complete list of side-effects that might be experiencing from taking it.

The dose for adults is 5-10 ml of liquid measure the quantity with measuring cups. Sodium picosulfate takes about 6-12 hours to work as it is best taken at bedtime.

If sodium picosulfate has been prescribed for your child, follow the instruction carefully which are given, as your doctor will adjust the dose according to your health need and child’s age.

Sodium picosulfate must only be used for a short period of time. This is due to your bowel can start to rely on this type of laxative to make it work rather than working on its own. If you are still feeling constipated after taking it for five days, you must talk with your doctor.

Get emergency help if you feel that the side effects will not go away or get worsen. The side effects are as follow:-

Bloody stools

Bleeding of the rectum

Confusion

Decreased urine output

Cough

Diarrhea

Dizziness or fainting

Fever

Dry mouth

Loss of consciousness

Loss of bowel control

Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

Muscle pain or cramps

Nausea

Seizures

Tightness in the chest

Vomiting

Adults and children over 10 years:-

Initially 10 drops(5 mg) at night and increase up to 20 drops(10 mg) only if required

Children 4 to 10 years:-

Initially 5 drops(2.5 mg) at night and increase up to 10 drops(5mg) only if required

The maximum recommended

the dose must not be exceeded.

If your doctor has changed the recommended dose, you must ask for further information from your doctor.