Drug Interactions between erlotinib and HalfLytely and Bisacodyl

Using bisacodyl together with sodium bicarbonate may alter the effects of bisacodyl. Bisacodyl and sodium bicarbonate should be separated by at least one hour. If your doctor does prescribe these medications together, you may need a dose adjustment or special test to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Taking the erlotinib and sodium bicarbonate doses too close together may interfere with the absorption of erlotinib and reduce its effectiveness. To prevent or minimize the interaction, sodium bicarbonate should be taken at least 4 hours before or 2 hours after the daily dose of erlotinib. Contact your doctor if your condition worsens during treatment with these medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Using polyethylene glycol 3350 together with bisacodyl may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as ulcerations in the colon and ischemic colitis (an inflammatory condition caused by reduced blood flow to the colon due to narrowed or blocked blood vessels). Although these side effects are relatively rare, they may be potentially serous and life-threatening, particularly ischemic colitis. Nonetheless, certain bowel cleansing regimens given prior to a colonoscopy may require the concurrent use of a stimulant laxative such as bisacodyl in order to be fully effective. You should avoid using these medications together unless specifically recommended or prescribed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.