Deacetylbisacodyl

Deacetylbisacodyl (also known as desacetyl bisacodyl or DAB) is the principal active metabolite of the stimulant laxatives bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate. It is formed in the intestine by enzymatic hydrolysis of these prodrugs. Deacetylbisacodyl acts locally in the colon to stimulate peristalsis and increase secretion of mucus and electrolytes such as chloride, leading to increased water content in stool and promoting bowel movements. Its mechanism involves direct stimulation of colonic mucosa, activation of parasympathetic nerves to enhance motility, inhibition of aquaporin-3 expression (reducing water reabsorption), and stimulation of adenylate cyclase with increased cyclic AMP levels[1][5][6]. Deacetylbisacodyl is not itself marketed as a drug but is pharmacologically relevant as the bioactive form responsible for the effects seen with its parent compounds.

Other names

desacetyl bisacodylbis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-2-methaneBHPM