Polyethylene Glycol 3350: Comprehensive Medication Guide

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: MiraLAX (Polyethylene Glycol 3350)

Pharmacologic Category

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 belongs to a class of drugs known as osmotic laxatives. Other medications in this category include lactulose (Duphalac, Kristalose) and magnesium hydroxide (Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia).

Dosing

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is used to treat the following conditions in adults: – Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC): The usual dose is 17 grams (about 1 heaping tablespoon) of powder per day, mixed into 4-8 ounces of beverage and drunk. – Occasional Constipation: Similarly, the usual dose is 17 grams per day, but usage should be temporary and not ongoing. – Constipation due to various causes such as certain medications or medical conditions: Dosing is individualized based on the cause and severity, typically starting with 17 grams per day.
Please remember to never adjust the dose of medication without speaking with your doctor first.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is available in the following dosage forms and strengths: – Powder for oral solution: 17 grams per scoopful or per single-dose packet.

Administration Instructions

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 should be mixed with a beverage and drunk. It can be taken at any time of day but is often taken once daily, preferably in the morning. It doesn’t need to be taken with meals, and it’s important to maintain proper hydration while using this medication.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Side effects of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 are generally mild and infrequent. However, they can include:
Bloating (Common): This feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdominal area is due to the osmotic effect of the medication drawing water into the intestines, which helps soften the stool. This effect usually lessens with continued use.
Gas (Common): Like bloating, gas is typically a result of the osmotic action of the medication. This can also lessen over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
Nausea (Less Common): This can occur in some individuals due to the substance’s effect on the digestive system, but it’s usually mild and temporary.
Diarrhea (Less Common): In cases where the dose is too high or the medication is taken too frequently, diarrhea can occur. If this happens, contact your healthcare provider for advice on adjusting your dosage.

Contraindications to Taking Polyethylene Glycol 3350

Contraindications are conditions or factors that serve as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm that it would cause the patient. Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is contraindicated in patients with:
Known or suspected bowel obstruction (Absolute Contraindication): As a laxative, Polyethylene Glycol 3350 stimulates movement in the digestive tract. If there is a blockage, this could lead to a serious or life-threatening situation.
Allergy to Polyethylene Glycol (Absolute Contraindication): Individuals who have had a hypersensitivity reaction to Polyethylene Glycol in the past should avoid using this medication. Symptoms of allergic reaction can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
Severe kidney disease (Relative Contraindication): While generally safe, in people with severe kidney disease, repeated or prolonged use of this medication could theoretically lead to the accumulation of electrolytes in the blood. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease before starting this medication.

Drug to Drug Interactions

As Polyethylene Glycol 3350 works locally in the gut and is not significantly absorbed into the body, it has a low potential for systemic drug interactions. However, because it increases transit time in the intestines, it can potentially affect the absorption of other oral medications such as:
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levoxyl, Tirosint) It’s advisable to take these medications at least 2 hours before or after taking Polyethylene Glycol 3350. As always, discuss any potential drug interactions with your healthcare provider.

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 in Pregnancy

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, as with all medications, it should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider during pregnancy.

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 while Breastfeeding

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding. Because it works locally in the gut and is not significantly absorbed, it is not expected to pass into breast milk. However, it’s always best to discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication while breastfeeding.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The cost of a 30-day supply of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (assuming a dose of 17 grams per day) varies, but using a GoodRx coupon, it typically ranges from $10-$20 for the generic version. Brand-name MiraLAX tends to be more expensive. Remember that these prices are only estimates and can vary depending on the pharmacy, location, and any negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.