Medication guide
Polyethylene Glycol 3350
- Generic name
- Polyethylene Glycol 3350
- Common brand names
- MiraLAX
- Medication class
- Osmotic laxative
Overview
Its medication class is Osmotic laxative. Common uses include Constipation relief. Product forms and labels can differ, so follow the specific package instructions and ask a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional about individual questions.
How to Take it
- Route
- Oral fiber/polydextrose-type laxative.
- Time of day
- Best taken in morning (and/or bedtime) with a hydration routine.
- With food/water
- Always with full glass (240 mL) water to prevent obstruction.
- Preparation
- Mix powder fully before drinking; start with partial dose and titrate.
- Safe dose
- Use minimal effective amount to maintain soft stools.
- Max dose
- Do not exceed label daily count; increase gradually.
- Frequency
- Once to twice daily.
- Other recommendations
- Combine with activity and diet; do not use indefinitely.
Common uses
- Constipation relief
Common side effects
- Bloating
- gas
- abdominal cramping
- loose stool
- nausea
- bloating discomfort
- and diarrhea
Important warnings
- Use adequate fluid intake to reduce dehydration and electrolyte imbalance risk. Not for bowel obstruction, severe abdominal pain, or vomiting without urgent evaluation. May cause severe diarrhea/electrolyte disturbances in frail adults; use cautiously in heart/kidney disease.
General interactions information
Can affect oral drug absorption minimally; separate from sensitive medicines if concern
Sources / references
- Polyethylene Glycol 3350 — MedlinePlus
U.S. National Library of Medicine
These references offer further reading. A source link does not establish that a clinician has reviewed every statement in this guide.
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