Diphenolmethane derivatives

Diphenolmethane derivatives (p. 177) were developed from phenolphthalein, an accidentally discovered laxative, use of which had been noted to result in rare but severe allergic reactions. Bisac-odyl and sodium picosulfate are converted by gut bacteria into the active colon-irritant principle. Given by the enteral route, bisacodyl is subject to hydrolysis of acetyl residues, absorption, conjugation in liver to glucuronic acid (or also to sulfate, p. 38), and biliary secretion into the duodenum. Oral administration is followed after approx. 6 to 8 h by discharge of soft formed stooL When given by suppository, bisacodyl produces its effect within 1 h. 

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