Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Dulcolax as follows:

  1. Discontinue using Dulcolax, if you experience any undiagnosed abdominal pain or rectal bleed and report to your physician immediately.
  2. Since Dulcolax decreases the transit time for the stool through the intestines and retain more water in stool, individuals can be at risk for dehydration. Caution must be exercised with regards to rehydration. A deliberate effort for rehydration should be made, as senior citizens usually have diminished sensitivity to thirst and are likely to skip drinking water.
  3. Prolonged use of Dulcolax may result in one losing the natural urge of having a bowel movement. Try not to use this laxative beyond one or two weeks, without doctor’s recommendation.