Skilax Tablet Uses

Skilax is a medication used to treat constipation and clean the intestines before surgery or specific medical procedures, such as colonoscopy. It belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulant laxatives that promote bowel movements.

The following are some common uses and indications of Skilax Tablet

1. Constipation: Skilax tablet is primarily used to provide relief from constipation. It helps to soften the stool and stimulate bowel movements.
2. Preoperative Bowel Preparation: It may be used before certain medical procedures or surgeries to clear the bowel of stool. This can help improve visibility during procedures like colonoscopies.
3. Diagnostic Procedures: Skilax tablets can be used in preparation for diagnostic procedures of the colon, such as colonoscopies or barium enemas.
4. Maintaining Regular Bowel Movements: In some cases, Skilax tablets may be prescribed to help individuals with certain medical conditions (e.g., spinal cord injuries) maintain regular bowel movements.
5. Treatment of Fecal Impaction: In cases where a large mass of stool has become stuck in the rectum or colon (known as fecal impaction), a Skilax tablet may be used to help dislodge and clear it.

Off-label Uses of Skilax Tablet

1. Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC): Opioid medications are known to cause constipation in many individuals. In some cases, a Skilax tablet may be used to help alleviate this side effect.
2. Bowel Evacuation in Emergency Situations: In certain emergency medical situations, such as before surgery or in the case of a bowel obstruction, the Skilax tablet may be used to rapidly empty the bowel.
3. Clearing Toxins or Substances from the Gastrointestinal Tract: Skilax tablets may be used in cases of poisoning or overdose to help clear toxic substances from the digestive system.
4. Neurological Disorders with Constipation: In some cases of neurological disorders, like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries, the Skilax tablet may be used to help manage chronic constipation.
5. Treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC): While there are other medications specifically approved for treating Chronic Idiopathic Constipation, in some cases, Skilax tablet may be considered as an alternative.
6. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Some healthcare providers may consider using Skilax tablets as a part of the treatment plan for IBS, particularly for individuals with predominant constipation symptoms.

Skilax is one of the leading brands of Sodium Picosulfate, manufactured and marketed by Highnoon Laboratories Ltd, Pakistan.

Following are some alternative brands of Skilx and their manufacturers.

• Laxoberon : Martin Dow Pharmaceuticals Pakistan.
• Conspic : Sami Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
• Picoz : Zafa Pharmaceutical, Laboratories, Pakistan.
• Sophilax : Adamjee Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
• Laxolax : Don Valley Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
• Laxonil : Reko Pharmaceutical (Pvt) Ltd.
• Brilax : Ideal Pharmaceutical Industries.
• Picolax : Star Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd.
• Softlax : Rasco Phaarma.
• Stimulax : Nenza Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Presently, Skilax is available in Tablet and Drop forms.

Skilax Tablet : 5mg strength.

Skilax Drops : 7.54mg/ml strength.

Skilax tablets have specific contraindications, which are situations or conditions where the use of the medication is not recommended. These contraindications are important to be aware of to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

1. Allergy or Hypersensitivity: Individuals who have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Sodium picosulfate or any of the other ingredients in the Skilax tablet should not use it.
2. Intestinal Obstruction: Skilax tablet should not be used if there is a known or suspected bowel obstruction. Using a laxative in this situation can potentially worsen the obstruction.
3. Severe Abdominal Pain: If an individual is experiencing severe abdominal pain of unknown origin, using Skilax tablet tablets is contraindicated. The pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional before using this medication.
4. Severe Dehydration: Individuals who are severely dehydrated should not use Skilax tablets, as it can exacerbate fluid loss.
5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Skilax tablet may not be recommended for individuals with active inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, as it may exacerbate symptoms.
6. Appendicitis Symptoms: If an individual has symptoms suggestive of appendicitis, such as sudden or severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever, using Skilax tablet tablets is contraindicated. Immediate medical attention is needed.
7. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Skilax tablets in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well studied. It should be used with caution and only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks, and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
8. Children Under 2 Years of Age: Skilax tablet tablets are generally not recommended for children under 2 years of age. Alternative treatments should be considered.

Skilax Tablet Dose for Constipation:

• 1 – 2 tablets of 5mg at bedtime.

Skilax Dose for Bowel Evacuation:

• 2 tablets of 5mg in the morning and repeat the dose in the evening.

Skilax Tablet Maximum Daily Dose for Adults:

• 20 mg (4 tablets) per day.

Skilax Tablet Dose for Children (4-10 Years):

• 1/2 to 1 tablet of 5mg.

The active ingredient in Skilax tablet is Sodium picosulfate a stimulant laxative. It is a prodrug, meaning that it is converted into its active form by bacteria in the colon. The active form of sodium picosulfate is bis-(p-hydroxy-phenyl)-pyridyl-2-methane (BHPM).

BHPM works by stimulating the nerves in the colon wall, which increases the movement of the colon (peristalsis). This helps to move stool through the digestive system and out of the body.