Carter's Little

For constipation, the usual dose for adults and children over 12 years of age is 1 to 2 tablets (5 mg to 10 mg) taken by mouth, or 1 adult suppository (10 mg) inserted rectally. For children 6 to 12 years of age, the usual dose is 1 tablet (5 mg) taken by mouth or 1 pediatric suppository (5 mg) inserted rectally.

Before a medical test or surgery, the usual dose for adults is 2 to 4 tablets (10 mg to 20 mg) by mouth the night before the procedure, followed by 1 suppository inserted rectally the morning of the procedure. For children 6 years of age and older, the usual dose is 1 tablet (5 mg) taken by mouth at bedtime and 1 pediatric suppository (5 mg) inserted rectally the following morning.

Take the tablets at night to produce a bowel movement the following morning. Do not take the tablets with milk or antacids as this may dissolve the coating on the tablet. Swallow the tablets whole with liquids. Do not crush or chew the tablets.

To use the suppositories, unwrap and insert high into the rectum with the pointed end first. Then, push the flat end of the suppository sideways so that part of it touches the wall of the rectum. Keep the suppository in the rectum for as long as possible. If inserting the suppository is difficult because you have had anal fissures or hemorrhoids, coat the end of the suppository with a lubricant such as petroleum jelly before inserting. The suppositories will start to work within 15 minutes to 1 hour.

Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not take Carter's Little (Bisacodyl) for longer than one week, unless directed by a health care professional. If you use Carter's Little (Bisacodyl) for one week and you do not produce a bowel movement, contact your doctor immediately.

It is important to take Carter's Little (Bisacodyl) exactly as prescribed by your doctor or recommended by your pharmacist. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not administer a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store Carter's Little (Bisacodyl) at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.