Correctol Laxative: What Happened To This Classic Remedy?

Correctol Laxative is no longer being manufactured for sale in Canada. The medication, which was used to treat constipation and to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination or surgery, was found to contain phenolphthalein, a compound that poses a potential cancer risk. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed a ban on over-the-counter products containing this ingredient, and the manufacturer, Novartis, voluntarily withdrew phenolphthalein-based products from the market. While some users found Correctol effective, others reported negative side effects such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

Correctol is no longer being manufactured for sale in Canada

Correctol Laxative is no longer being manufactured for sale in Canada. The medication, which was used to treat constipation, is a brand-name over-the-counter medication manufactured by MSD Consumer Care, Inc.

Correctol's active ingredient is bisacodyl, which is a type of stimulant laxative. Bisacodyl works by stimulating the bowel muscles and accumulating water in the intestines, softening the stool and producing a bowel movement more quickly. It is typically taken orally, with the usual dose for adults and children over 12 being 1 to 2 tablets (5 mg to 10 mg) taken by mouth, or 1 adult suppository (10 mg) inserted rectally. For children aged 6 to 12, the usual dose is 1 tablet (5 mg).

While Correctol is no longer being manufactured, other brands containing bisacodyl may still be available. Bisacodyl is also available under different brand names such as Dulcolax, BisacEvac, and Laxit. If you are currently using Correctol, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about alternative treatment options.

It is important to note that bisacodyl may cause side effects such as abdominal cramps, pain, or discomfort. It should not be taken for longer than one week unless directed by a healthcare professional. Additionally, it should not be taken with milk or antacids as these can dissolve the coating on the tablet.

Correctol is a brand-name over-the-counter medication

Bisacodyl, the generic name for Correctol, belongs to the class of medications called stimulant laxatives. It works by stimulating the bowel muscles and accumulating water in the intestines, softening the stool and producing a bowel movement more quickly. 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 typical dose is 1 tablet (5 mg) taken orally. It is important to follow the directions on the product package or the advice of a doctor or pharmacist when taking this medication.

Correctol has received mixed reviews, with some users reporting positive experiences and others reporting negative side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhoea. It is important to note that this medication should not be taken for longer than one week unless directed by a healthcare professional. If you experience any severe side effects, it is important to seek medical help right away.

Correctol is used to treat constipation

Correctol is a medication used to treat constipation. It is a form of stimulant laxative, which works by stimulating the bowel muscles and accumulating water in the intestines. This helps to soften the stool and encourages a bowel movement. Correctol is typically taken at bedtime orally or rectally, and it can take between 6 and 12 hours or 15 minutes to an hour to work, depending on the form of ingestion.

Correctol is also used to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination or surgery. It is typically recommended for short-term use, as long-term use can lead to dehydration and low potassium levels. It is also not recommended for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain medical conditions, such as intestinal blockage or appendicitis.

Correctol was previously manufactured with the ingredient phenolphthalein, which was proposed to be banned by the FDA in 1997 due to potential cancer risks. However, the manufacturer, Schering-Plough, voluntarily removed phenolphthalein from Correctol and replaced it with bisacodyl, which is still used today.

Bisacodyl is the generic name for Correctol and it is important to follow the directions on the product package or a doctor's advice when taking this medication. It should not be taken for longer than one week unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Correctol may be used to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination/surgery

Correctol is a stimulant laxative medication that contains bisacodyl. Bisacodyl is used to treat constipation and may also be used to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination or surgery. It works by stimulating the bowel muscles and accumulating water in the intestines, softening the stool and producing a bowel movement more quickly.

Correctol is typically taken by mouth as directed by a doctor or according to the product package if self-treating. It is important to swallow the tablets whole and not to crush, chew, or break them. Additionally, Correctol should not be taken with milk or antacids as they can dissolve the coating on the tablet. The usual dose for adults before a medical test or surgery is 2 to 4 tablets taken by mouth the night before the procedure, followed by a suppository inserted rectally the morning of the procedure.

It is worth noting that Correctol is no longer being manufactured for sale in Canada, and individuals currently using this medication should consult their doctor or pharmacist for alternative treatment options.

The use of Correctol or any laxative medication should be approached with caution. It is recommended that individuals consult their doctor before taking Correctol, especially if they have a history of gastrointestinal diseases, colon surgery, or any other medical conditions. While Correctol can be effective in treating constipation and preparing for bowel examinations, it is important to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional to ensure safe and proper usage.

Correctol has an average rating of 5.7 out of 10 from a total of 39 reviews on Drugs.com

Correctol, a medication used to treat constipation, has received mixed reviews on Drugs.com, with an average rating of 5.7 out of 10 from 39 reviewers. As a stimulant laxative, it increases intestinal movement to encourage bowel evacuation. While it can be effective for short-term relief, Correctol is not intended for long-term use and may cause side effects such as abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhoea.

The reviews on Drugs.com reflect a range of experiences with Correctol. Some users may have found it effective for relieving constipation, giving it a rating of 10/10. However, others may have experienced side effects or insufficient results, contributing to the lower average rating. It's important to note that individual responses to medication can vary, and not everyone will have the same experience with Correctol.

The active ingredient in Correctol, bisacodyl, was once a common component in laxatives. However, in 1997, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed a ban on phenolphthalein, a related compound found in Ex-Lax, due to potential cancer risks associated with high doses or prolonged use. Although no human cancer cases were reported, studies in rodents showed an increased incidence of tumours.

In response to the FDA's proposal, manufacturers began reformulating their products. Schering-Plough, the maker of Correctol, replaced phenolphthalein with bisacodyl in 1996. This change aimed to address safety concerns and provide consumers with an alternative laxative option.

It's important to consult a healthcare professional before taking Correctol or any other medication to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. Self-treating with Correctol should be done with caution, following the instructions on the product package, and not exceeding the recommended duration of use (typically no more than one week unless directed by a doctor).

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