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Dulcolax Liquid
Generic name: magnesium hydroxide
Brand names: Dulcolax Chewy Fruit Bites, Dulcolax Liquid, Dulcolax Soft Chews, Milk of Magnesia, Pedia-Lax Chewable, Phillips Milk of Magnesia, Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia
What is Dulcolax Liquid?
Magnesium is a mineral that occurs naturally. Dulcolax Liquid lowers stomach acid and adds water to the intestines, which can help trigger bowel movements.
Dulcolax Liquid is used as a laxative to help relieve occasional constipation.
Dulcolax Liquid is also used as an antacid to help relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.
Dulcolax Liquid may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I take 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.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
Do not use Dulcolax Liquid without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
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:
- you have kidney disease;
- you are on a low-magnesium diet; or
- 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.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Dulcolax Liquid side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Dulcolax Liquid may cause serious side effects. Stop using Dulcolax Liquid and call your doctor right away if you have:
- severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
- no bowel movement after using the medicine as a laxative;
- rectal bleeding; or
- worsening symptoms.
Common side effects of Dulcolax Liquid may include:
- diarrhea; or
- a reduced sense of taste.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Dulcolax Liquid is taken as needed, you might not follow a regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
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.
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Dulcolax Liquid?
Other drugs may change how Dulcolax Liquid works, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all the medicines you are currently taking and any new medicine you begin or stop using.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Common questions about magnesium hydroxide
Does magnesium help with bloating and digestion?
Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.