Bisacodyl: Your brand is changing to Bisacodyl-AFT
Bisacodyl is changing brand from Bisacodyl Viatris to Bisacodyl-AFT.
When is this happening
You can expect to change to Bisacodyl-AFT sometime after February 2026 but before 1 July 2026.
Same active ingredient, in the same quantity
Bisacodyl-AFT is made by a different company than your previous brand. However, it contains the same active ingredient in the same amount. It should work in your body the same way as Biscodyl Viatris.
Medsafe is the government authority responsible for medicine safety in New Zealand. It has reviewed Bisacodyl-AFT tablets and found that they meet New Zealand standards of safety, quality, and effectiveness.
New label, similar tablet
Bisacodyl-AFT packaging will look different. But the tablets themselves will be the same size and shape and a similar yellow colour.
Why is this happening?
This is a tender brand change. Every year, Pharmac runs a tender process to create competition among suppliers to supply many medicines used by New Zealanders.
The tender helps Pharmac manage the costs of medicines. Any savings we make are returned to the medicines budget to help pay for new medicines.
Your brand change is helping fund more medicines for more New Zealanders.
Information for pharmacists
Bisacodyl-AFT (Pharmacode: 2720914) is funded from 1 February 2026 with a subsidy of $6.28. Stock arrived later in February and is available to order.
There is still stock of Bisacodyl Viatris (Pharmacode: 2631881) with a subsidy of $10.00. This product will be delisted from 1 July 2026.
We have prepared a flyer to support conversations with patients.
- Bisacodyl brand change flyer Feb 2026 [PDF 140 KB]
Who to contact
If you have questions about this issue, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz
Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.
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