Overview of Veracolate
Veracolate: A General Overview and Therapeutic Role
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Bisacodyl, USP |
| Form | Delayed-Release Oral Tablet (5 mg) |
| Pharmacological Class | Stimulant Laxative |
| Common Use | Relief of Occasional Constipation |
| OTC/Rx Status | Over-the-Counter (OTC) |
Veracolate is a brand name medication primarily used as a stimulant laxative for the relief of occasional constipation. It is formulated as an oral, delayed-release tablet, designed to pass through the stomach intact and dissolve in the intestine.
The core therapeutic objective of Veracolate is to provide gentle, dependable relief from infrequent or difficult bowel movements, typically working within 6 to 12 hours. It is regarded as a standard first-line therapy used for temporary symptom management when diet and lifestyle adjustments alone are insufficient.
What Pharmacological Class and Type of Compound is Veracolate?
The single active ingredient in Veracolate is Bisacodyl, which places it squarely within the stimulant laxative pharmacological class. Bisacodyl is a synthetic compound, a diphenylmethane derivative, and has been in clinical use since the 1950s.
A key differentiating feature of Veracolate and similar Bisacodyl products is the use of a delayed-release coating. This formulation ensures the active compound reaches the colon, where it is most effective. The drug's mechanism involves directly stimulating the enteric nerves in the colon, a well-documented physiological action. The medication is generally marketed for adults and children over the age of 6.
Regulatory References

