Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

picolax drops

Picolax drops is an osmotic laxative containing sodium picosulfate that stimulates bowel motility and increases stool water content to promote defecation.

Picolax drops is an osmotic laxative containing sodium picosulfate that stimulates bowel motility and increases stool water content to promote defecation. Used for Constipation, Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other gastrointestinal procedures.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Sodium picosulfate is a prodrug that is converted by colonic bacteria into bis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-methane, which acts as an osmotic agent and stimulates colonic contractions. This increases intraluminal fluid volume and accelerates intestinal transit, resulting in bowel evacuation. The drops formulation allows for flexible dosing and is commonly used for bowel preparation and constipation relief.

Approved indications

• Constipation
• Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other gastrointestinal procedures

Common side effects

• Abdominal cramping
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Electrolyte imbalance

Key clinical trials

• Lubiprostone for Functional Constipation in the Under 18 Years Patients (PHASE3)
• The Efficacy of Chewing Gums Versus Laxative in Early Return of Bowel Function After CS (PHASE4)
• Pharmacokinetics of Bisacodyl or Sodium Picosulfate Administered Orally in Healthy Lactating Females (PHASE1)
• Sodium Picosulphate vs. Placebo in Functional Constipation (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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Competitive intelligence

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• picolax drops CI brief — competitive landscape report
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• Ahmed M Maged, MD portfolio CI