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Picolax Patient Information

Picolax is an osmotic laxative medication used to increase the amount of water and volume of stools in users. The medication works by drawing water into the lower bowel, which in turn makes the stools softer and easier to pass. Picolax is used primarily when immediate bowel relief is required and should not be used for regular constipation. This medication is often used in preparation for the examination of the colon via colonoscopy.

  1. Before Using

    • Picolax should never be used to treat any of the following ailments: decreased kidney function, intestinal blockage, rapid expansion of the large intestine, undiagnosed abdominal problems or Crohn's disease. If you have high or low levels of potassium in your blood, you should take Picolax with extreme caution. Do not use other medications in conjunction with Picolax as it may decrease their function.

    Side Effects

    • A number of side effects are associated with using Picolax. Some of these side effects include diarrhea, headache, increased drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, seizures, low blood sugar, severe stomach pain, allergic reaction, hives and skin rash. While these are considered the most common side effects associated with using this drug, they only affect a small number of users.

    Important Safety Information

    • Always drink plenty of fluids while taking Picolax as the medication will force your body to excrete more water than it is normally used to. Be sure to remain in an environment where there is a bathroom available at all times as this medication produces frequent and powerful bowel movements. Treatment should occur for less than 24 hours as any longer will severely deplete the body of vital nutrients.

    Use

    • Always use this medication exactly as it was prescribed by your doctor and never in dosages larger than what has been recommended on the label. Picolax is administered in pill form and should be taken with a full glass of water. The medication can be taken with or without food and should always be stored at room temperature. Keep Picolax away from sources of moisture for the best results.

    Warning

    • if you experience any side effects, contact your physician immediately.

      If an overdose is suspected, contact the poison control center and head directly to the nearest emergency room.

      Picolax is meant in the treatment of the above ailments only and should not be used to treat any other medical conditions unless specifically instructed to do so by a doctor.

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