Is Bisac-Evac still in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on Bisacodyl availability, pricing, and what patients can do to find it.
If you rely on Bisac-Evac for constipation relief or bowel preparation, you've probably noticed that finding it hasn't always been easy. Bisacodyl products — particularly suppositories — have faced intermittent supply issues over the past few years, leaving many patients scrambling for alternatives.
In this 2026 update, we'll break down the current shortage status, explain why Bisac-Evac has been hard to find, and give you practical steps to get the medication you need.
The short answer: it depends on the form.
Bisacodyl oral tablets (5 mg) are generally widely available in 2026. Most pharmacies carry generic Bisacodyl tablets, and major brands like Dulcolax are well-stocked at chain retailers.
Bisacodyl suppositories (10 mg) have been more problematic. The ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) has listed bisacodyl suppositories on their drug shortage database, primarily because G&W Laboratories discontinued production of their bisacodyl suppository product. While other manufacturers — including Perrigo, Major, Geri-Care, and Rugby — continue to produce suppositories, the loss of a major manufacturer has led to periodic supply gaps.
Bisacodyl enemas have also seen some availability challenges, though to a lesser extent than suppositories.
Several factors have contributed to availability issues:
When G&W Laboratories stopped making bisacodyl suppositories, it removed a significant chunk of supply from the market. The remaining manufacturers have had to absorb that demand, which takes time.
The pharmaceutical supply chain continues to face headwinds from raw material costs, shipping logistics, and manufacturing capacity constraints. Even common OTC medications aren't immune to these pressures.
Not all pharmacies carry every brand of Bisacodyl. Chain pharmacies often stock only one or two brands, so if their usual supplier is backordered, the shelf sits empty — even when other versions of the same medication may be available elsewhere.
Constipation affects an estimated 16% of adults nationwide, and rates are even higher among seniors. As the aging population grows, demand for laxatives continues to rise.
One piece of good news: Bisac-Evac and generic Bisacodyl remain very affordable:
Because Bisacodyl is an over-the-counter medication, insurance typically doesn't cover it — but the low cash price makes it accessible for most patients. Discount cards from SingleCare and similar services can bring the price down even further. For all the savings strategies, read our guide on how to save money on Bisac-Evac.
While no new forms of Bisacodyl have been introduced recently, patients in 2026 have more tools than ever to find medications:
Additionally, several manufacturers continue to produce bisacodyl suppositories, so the supply situation has improved compared to the initial disruption when G&W exited the market.
Here are the most effective strategies:
Visit medfinder.com and search for Bisac-Evac or Bisacodyl. The tool shows real-time availability at pharmacies near your zip code.
Remember, Bisac-Evac is just one of many brand names for Bisacodyl. If your pharmacy doesn't have Bisac-Evac specifically, they almost certainly have Dulcolax, a store brand, or generic Bisacodyl. It's the exact same medication.
Local independent pharmacies often have more flexible ordering and may be able to get what chain pharmacies can't. Learn more in our article on finding Bisac-Evac in stock near you.
If Bisacodyl suppositories specifically are unavailable, talk to your doctor about alternatives like Senna, MiraLAX, or Milk of Magnesia. Our complete guide to Bisac-Evac alternatives covers all your options.
OTC Bisacodyl can be purchased online from major retailers. If you're not in a rush, this is a convenient and reliable option.
If you need Bisac-Evac for a colonoscopy or surgical bowel prep and can't find it, contact your doctor's office immediately. They can:
Don't skip your bowel prep — if you can't find the prescribed medication, your medical team needs to know right away.
The Bisac-Evac situation in 2026 is improving but not fully resolved, especially for the suppository form. Oral tablets are widely available, and the overall supply picture is better than it was when manufacturers first began exiting the market.
The key takeaways:
Don't let a shortage keep you from getting relief. With the right tools and information, you can find what you need.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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