Constipation is a very annoying and uncomfortable condition. Sometimes, the pain you feel when you can't go to the toilet for days is unbearable. In such cases, a medicine that many doctors recommend and that is also commonly found in pharmacies is a powder called Polyethylene Glycol. Some people may know this by brand names like MiraLAX, GaviLax, GlycoLax. So, let's talk about this medicine in simple terms today.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this medicine works by drawing water into your intestines. It's like a sponge absorbing water. As the amount of water in your intestines increases, the dry, hard stools gradually become loose and soft. This is called an osmotic laxative.
At the same time, the pressure in the intestine is also increased a little. Then the muscles in the intestine get a signal that says, "Okay, now is the time to push the stool out." This is how bowel movements are made easier. These belong to the category of laxatives ( laxatives ) used for constipation.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before you use this medicine, it is extremely important to inform your doctor about some of your health conditions, as this medicine may not be suitable in some cases.
| Situation you need to report | Why is that? |
|---|---|
| If you have had a blockage in your intestine. | If there is a blockage somewhere in the intestines, this medicine can make it worse. |
| If you have nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain. | These may be symptoms of another serious illness. It is not advisable to use this medicine before the exact cause is determined. |
| A change in bowel habits that lasts more than 2 weeks. | This could also be a sign of another medical condition. The cause should be investigated first. |
| If you have a condition called Phenylketonuria (PKU). | Some medications may contain ingredients that are harmful to these patients. |
| If you have allergies to Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) or other medicines, foods, or dyes. | It is essential to be informed of this to prevent allergies. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a nursing mother. | In cases like this, any medication should only be used under medical advice. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This medicine comes in the form of a powder. It is to be taken orally. The best results can be achieved by using it properly.
1. Measure the correct amount as directed on the label or as directed by your doctor. Usually, a measuring cup, similar to a cap, comes with the medicine bottle.
2. Add that amount of powder to a glass of water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea (about 4-8 ounces or 120-240 milliliters).
3. Stir until completely dissolved. Do not let any powder remain.
4. Now drink this mixture completely.
Important: Do not mix this powder with foods or starch-based thickeners such as bread flour, cornstarch, or tapioca. This may change the way the medicine works.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you suddenly think you have taken too much medicine, don't panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when using the medicine
There are several things you should pay attention to when using this medicine.
- Do not use for more than a week: Do not take this medicine for more than a week at a time without consulting your doctor. If constipation persists, there may be another cause. So see your doctor again.
- Drink plenty of water:It is essential to drink plenty of water throughout the day while taking this medication. Drinking water also helps reduce constipation.
- Stop taking the medicine if you experience these symptoms: If you have blood in your stool, or if you do not have a bowel movement despite using the medicine, stop taking the medicine immediately and see a doctor. These may be signs of a more serious condition.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause minor side effects in some people, but most people don't.
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the body, especially of the face, lips, tongue or throat, and difficulty breathing. |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Bloating | Feeling of fullness in the stomach. |
| Gas | Frequent passing of air. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Stomach cramping | Feeling a slight cramp-like pain in the stomach. |
Some frequently asked questions
How long does it take for this medicine to work?
This is not an instant cure. It works very slowly and systematically. You usually see results within one to three days . There is no rush, that is the nature of this medicine.
Can this medicine be taken every day?
The general advice is not to use it for more than a week at a time without consulting a doctor. If you need to take it longer than that, it may mean that your constipation is chronic. Therefore, it is important to talk to a doctor to find out the cause and get treatment.
What is the best time to take this medicine?
There is no specific time to take this. You can take it at any time convenient for you, morning, noon, or night. However, if you are taking it for several days in a row, try to take it at the same time every day as much as possible. This will help keep the concentration of the medicine in your body at the same level.
Is it safe to take this during pregnancy?
Yes, it is generally considered safe to use this medicine for constipation during pregnancy. Most often, doctors first recommend changing your diet, drinking water, and exercising. But if those don't work, they may recommend a medicine like this. But, be sure to talk to your doctor and use it only with his approval.
Take-Home Message
- Polyethylene Glycol (MiraLAX) is a laxative that is used to soften stool by drawing water into the intestines.
- Before using this medicine, tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have, other medications you are taking, and any allergies you have.
- Dissolve the medicine powder in a liquid such as water or juice and drink. Do not use for more than a week without consulting a doctor.
- It is very important to drink plenty of water while taking the medication.
- If you experience blood in your stool, severe stomach pain, or allergic symptoms, stop taking the medicine immediately and seek medical advice.
- Always seek medical advice when giving to pregnant mothers and children.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 What is Polyethylene Glycol (Miralax / PEG 3350) used for?
This is a very effective and safest Osmotic Laxative powder for severe 'Constipation'! When you are tired of the stomach-turning/addictive drugs like Senna/Bisacodyl that cause intestinal upset, this is the gentle stool softener that doctors fearlessly prescribe. When you dissolve this powder in a glass of juice/water and drink it, you will have a very comfortable bowel movement in about 1-3 days.
💬 How do you loosen the stool that is stuck like a tin can in your stomach after drinking this powder (Polyethylene Glycol)?
Very gentle and wonderful! After drinking this powder, it is not absorbed into the body (blood). Instead, when it passes through the intestines, it acts like a sponge and 'draws/retains all the water in the intestine (Osmotic action)'. Then, that water is added to the hard stool, loosens it up well, and slides out without any pain/stomach cramps.
💬 What are the main side effects of taking this medication (MiraLAX)? Is water mandatory?
The biggest side effect of this is bloating/flatulence and a slight feeling of nausea in the first few days. The other dangerous thing is that it works 'with water', so if you take this drug, you need to take it with a 'full glass of water (240ml)'! Otherwise, all the water in your body will be drawn into your intestines, and you can get severe dehydration (should only be given to young children under medical advice).
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