Comparison of bisacodyl and sodium picosulphate in the treatment of chronic constipation

Abstract

Background: Chronic constipation is a widespread condition. Although laxatives are generally accepted as being effective treatments, few studies have made formal comparisons of their efficacy and safety in chronic use. Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy of bisacodyl and sodium picosulphate in the treatment of chronic constipation over a 4-week period. Methods: Patients with chronic constipation (N = 144), recruited from out-patient clinics, were analysed for safety and efficacy in this open-label, randomised, parallel-group study. Patients were treated dally for 4 weeks (bisacodyl, 5-10 mg daily: 70 patients; sodium picosulphate, 5-10 mg daily: 74 patients). Primary efficacy crite..