Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative used for the temporary relief of occasional constipation and cleansing of the colon as a preparation for colonoscopy in adults. Both bisacodyl and picosulfate are metabolized to the same active metabolite bis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-2-methane (BHPM).
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 10 references
Bisacodyl is deacetylated to the active bis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-2-methane (BHPM) by an intestinal deacetylase. BHPM can stimulate parasympathetic nerves in the colon directly to increase motility and secretions.
Bisacodyl stimulates adenylate cyclase, increasing cyclic AMP, leading to active transport of chloride and bicarbonate out of cells. Sodium ions, potassium ions, and water passively leave the cell; while sodium and chloride ions are unable to be reabsorbed.
Water is also be transported from the luminal side of cells into the vasculature by aquaporin 3. Bisacodyl decreases expression of aquaporin 3, preventing water from moving into the vasculature, which may contribute to increased water in the colon.
Bisacodyl directly stimulates parasympathetic nerves in the colon, stimulating contraction of longitudinal smooth muscle but not circular smooth muscle.
- Primary indication
- Bisacodyl is indicated to relieve occasional constipation and irregularity.Curator reviewed · 5 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C22H19NO4 · 361.3906 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 1996 · United States, 2006
- Code names
- LA 96 a
- Brand names
Resolves to
KHOITXIGCFIULA-UHFFFAOYSA-NSMILESCC(=O)OC1=CC=C(C=C1)C(C1=CC=C(OC(C)=O)C=C1)C1=CC=CC=N1What you can answer from here — as of September 19, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Bisacodyl, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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