Colax
Colax Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Food Interaction and all others data.
Colax is a triarylmethane group derivative stimulant laxative. After oral administration it is activated by the colonic bacteria and acts locally in the colon. The active form then stimulates the nerve endings of the intestinal wall and results in colonic peristalsis with promotion of accumulation of water and electrolytes in the colonic lumen. This results in stimulation of defecation, reduction of transit time and softening of the stool. Stimulation of the rectum causes increased motility and a feeling of rectal fullness. The rectal effect may help to restore the "call to stool".
| Trade Name | Colax |
| Generic | Sodium Picosulfate |
| Weight | 10mg, 5mg |
| Type | Tablet, Syrup, Oral Delayed Release Tablet, Rectal Enema, Rectal Suppository, Oral And Rectal |
| Therapeutic Class | Osmotic purgatives |
| Manufacturer | Strassenburg Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Pharmadesh Laboratories Ltd |
| Available Country | India, Bangladesh, United States |
| Last Updated: | September 19, 2023 at 7:00 am |
Uses
Colax is used for the following conditions-
- Constipation of any etiology
- Relief from prolonged & recurrent constipation
- Bowel clearance before surgery, childbirth or radiological investigations.
Dosage
Colax dosage
For oral administration. The following dosages are recommended to be taken at night to produce evacuation the following morning. It is recommended to start with the lowest dose. The dose may be adjusted up to the maximum recommended dose to produce regular stools. The maximum recommended daily dose should not be exceeded:
Adults and children over 10 years of age-
- Tablet: 5-10 mg per day.
- Oral Solution: 5-10 ml or one to two teaspoonful per day.
- Tablet: 2.5-5 mg per day.
- Oral Solution: 2.5-5 ml or Half to one teaspoonful per day.
- Oral Solution: 0.25 ml/kg body weight per day.
Side Effects
Hypersensitivity, dizziness, syncope, vasovagal response, gastrointestinal disorders, diarrhea, abdominal pain and abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting.
Precaution
Prolonged excessive use may lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalance and hypokalemia. Harmful for those suffering from alcoholism. To be taken into account in pregnant or breast-feeding women, children and high-risk groups such as patients with liver disease or epilepsy.
Interaction
The concomitant use of diuretics or adreno-corticosteroids may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance if excessive doses are taken. Concurrent administration of antibiotics may reduce the laxative action of this product.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use
There are no reports of undesirable or damaging effects during pregnancy or to the foetus attributable to the use of this product. Use of the drug should be avoided during the first trimester. Clinical data show that neither the active moiety of sodium Picosulfate (BHPM or bis-(p hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-2-methane) nor its glucuronides are excreted into the milk of healthy lactating females.
Contraindication
Ileus or intestinal obstruction, severe painful and/or feverish acute abdominal conditions (e.g. appendicitis) potentially associated with nausea and vomiting, acute inflammatory bowel diseases, severe dehydration, known hypersensitivity to Colax or any other component of the product.
Acute Overdose
Laxatives when taken in chronic overdosage may cause chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, hypokalemia, secondary hyperaldosteronism, and renal calculi. Renal tubular damage, metabolic alkalosis, and muscle weakness secondary to hypokalemia have also been described in association with chronic laxative abuse.
Storage Condition
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Innovators Monograph
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FAQ
What is Colax used for?
Colax, magnesium oxide, and anhydrous citric acid is used in adults and children 9 years of age and older to empty the colon (large intestine, bowel) before a colonoscopy (examination of the inside of the colon to check for colon cancer and other abnormalities) so that the doctor will have a clear view of the walls of the colon.
Is Colax safe?
Colax was well-tolerated. Serious adverse events were all related to the underlying condition. A satisfactory response (normal stool consistency, not requiring enemas, suppositories or manual evacuation, no significant adverse event) was achieved in 15/20 evaluable patients.
How does Colax work?
Colax works by encouraging the muscles in your bowel to move waste products through your body.
What are the common side effects of Colax?
Common side effects of Colax are include:
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- confusion;
- irregular heartbeats;
- a seizure;
- little or no urination;
- severe nausea or vomiting;
- painful bloating, severe stomach cramps;
- rectal bleeding;
Is Colax safe during pregnancy?
No studies have been carried out to examine whether using Colax during pregnancy is linked to problems in the unborn baby. No problems have been reported following use during pregnancy.
Is Colax safe during breastfeeding?
Colax is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and its active metabolite, which is absorbed, is not detectable in breastmilk. Colax can be taken during breastfeeding and no special precautions are required.
How long does Colax stay in my system?
Colax works by encouraging the muscles in your bowel to move waste products through your body. This helps you to go to the toilet. It usually has an effect within 6-12 hours.
Can I take Colax in the morning?
Colax should be taken at night to produce relief from constipation the following morning.
When should I take Colax?
Colax is usually given once each day. This is usually at bedtime. Give the medicine at about the same time each day so that this becomes part of your child's routine, which will help you to remember.
How long does Colax take to work?
Colax takes about 6-12 hours to work; therefore, it is best taken at bedtime.
How long can I take Colax?
Colax should not be taken on a continuous daily basis for more than five days without investigating the cause of constipation. Long-term everyday use of stimulant laxatives may harm the intestinal function and should be avoided.
Who should not take Colax?
Colax is not recommended for use in children below the age of 10 years. Consult your doctor before using this medicine, if you are pregnant or are breastfeeding. Colax is not recommended if you have any dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, stomach or intestine blockage disorders.
Is Colax safe for kidney patients?
Kidney disease, mild to moderate—Use with caution.
Can Colax affect my heart?
This medicine may cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances, which may lead to serious unwanted effects, including heart rhythm problems, seizures, or kidney problems. Your doctor should correct these imbalances before you or your child start taking this medicine.
Is it safe to take Colax daily?
Colax should not be taken on a continuous daily basis for more than five days without investigating the cause of constipation. Long-term everyday use of stimulant laxatives may harm the intestinal function and should be avoided.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor if you cannot drink the entire amount of medicine and liquids as instructed in time for your colonoscopy.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention. Overdose can cause severe dehydration (severe headache or dizziness, vomiting, being unable to urinate). An overdose is unlikely to occur if you take citric acid, magnesium oxide, and sodium picosulfate exactly as directed.
Does Colax cause diarrhea?
Colax can also cause side-effects, although not everybody experiences them. Diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, pain, or cramps are the common side-effects of Colax.
