Sodium picosulfate

Stimulant laxative
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Sodium picosulfate is a stimulant laxative found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Cremaffin Plus. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves constipation.

How it works

A stimulant laxative activated by gut bacteria in the large bowel; it works in 6 to 12 hours. Large doses are used to empty the bowel before a colonoscopy.

How to take it

For constipation, 5 to 10 mg at bedtime. For bowel preparation, follow the clinic's instructions exactly and drink the extra fluids.

Common side effects

  • Stomach cramps
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea

Get medical help straight away if

  • Dizziness, confusion or very little urine (dehydration after bowel prep)
  • Severe pain

Be careful

Short-term use only; can cause cramps.

Other medicines and interactions

Antibiotics can reduce its effect. Long use can lower potassium.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask a doctor before using in pregnancy; generally acceptable while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Sodium picosulfate (1)

Cremaffin Plus

Common questions

What is Sodium picosulfate used for?

Relieves constipation.

How does Sodium picosulfate work?

A stimulant laxative activated by gut bacteria in the large bowel; it works in 6 to 12 hours. Large doses are used to empty the bowel before a colonoscopy.

How should I take Sodium picosulfate?

For constipation, 5 to 10 mg at bedtime. For bowel preparation, follow the clinic's instructions exactly and drink the extra fluids.

What are the side effects of Sodium picosulfate?

Common: Stomach cramps, diarrhoea, nausea. Get help straight away for: Dizziness, confusion or very little urine (dehydration after bowel prep), severe pain.

Does Sodium picosulfate interact with other medicines?

Antibiotics can reduce its effect. Long use can lower potassium.

Is Sodium picosulfate safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask a doctor before using in pregnancy; generally acceptable while breastfeeding.

Does Sodium picosulfate need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Sodium picosulfate?

Cremaffin Plus.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.