Drug Interactions between HalfLytely and Bisacodyl and peppermint oil

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.

The following interaction applies to enteric-coated, gastro-resistant formulations of peppermint oil (usually delayed or sustained release capsules):

Acid-lowering agents like sodium bicarbonate may disrupt the release mechanism of delayed or extended release formulations of peppermint oil by causing premature dissolution of the enteric coating in the stomach, resulting in early release of the peppermint oil. This can lead to gastrointestinal irritation such as heartburn, indigestion, nausea and vomiting, as well as reduced effectiveness of the medication. If you are taking an enteric-coated, gastro-resistant formulation of peppermint oil and require the use of antacids (medications that neutralize stomach acid such as Alka-Seltzer, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Maalox, Milk of Magnesia, Mylanta, Rolaids, and Tums), you should separate their times of administration by at least 2 hours. Acid suppressants such as cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), ranitidine (Zantac), esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), and pantoprazole (Protonix) should generally be avoided if possible. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions on how to take peppermint oil or any of your other 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.