Polyethylene Glycol

Polyethylene Glycol is indicated in the treatment of constipation. This should be used for 2 weeks or less or as directed by physician. Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is a prescription only laxative that has been prescribed by physician to treat constipation. This product should only be used by the person for whom it is prescribed.

This is white powder for reconstitution. It is a synthetic polyglycol having an average molecular weight of 3350. Polyethylene Glycol is an osmotic agent that causes water to be retained with the stool. Polyethylene Glycol appears to have no effect on the active absorption or secretion of glucose or electrolytes.

The primary mode of action is thought to be through the osmotic effect of polyethylene glycol 3350 which causes water to be retained in the colon and produces a watery stool. Polyethylene Glycol induces as diarrhea which rapidly cleanses the bowel, usually within four hours.

The usual dose of Polyethylene Glycol is 17 gm of powder per day (or as directed by physician) in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea. Each bottle of Polyethylene Glycol is supplied with a cup that is used to measure 17 gm or 8.5 gm of laxative powder when filled upto the marked line.

It should always be taken by mouth. Measure the dose using the supplied cup, stir and dissolve in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea. Taking more than the prescribed dose may cause loss of fluid due to severe diarrhea.

No specific drug interactions have been demonstrated.

Polyethylene glycol is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected bowel obstruction and patients known to be allergic to polyethylene glycol.

Nausea, abdominal bloating, cramping and flatulence may occur. High doses may produce diarrhea and excessive stool frequency, particularly in elderly nursing home patients. Patients taking other medications containing polyethylene glycol have occasionally developed urticaria suggestive of an allergic reaction.

Pregnancy: It is not known whether Polyethylene glycol can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman, or can effect reproductive capacity. Polyethylene glycol should only be administered to a pregnant woman if clearly needed.

Lactation: There is no information on the use of Polyethylene glycol while nursing. Consultation with a physician is necessary in case of breastfeeding.

Patients with symptoms suggestive of bowel obstruction (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or distention) should be evaluated to rule out this condition before initiating Polyethylene Glycol therapy. Polyethylene Glycol should be administered after being dissolved in water, juice, coke, coffee or tea.

There have been no reports of accidental overdosage. In the event of overdosage diarrhea would be the expected major event. If an overdose of drug occurred without concomitant ingestion of fluid, dehydration due to diarrhea may result. Medication should be terminated and free water administered.

Osmotic purgatives

Polyethylene Glycol achieves its best results when used between one and two weeks. It may be discontinued after several satisfactory bowel movements. Should unusual cramps, bloating, or diarrhea occur, consultation with physician is needed. Polyethylene Glycol is intended for up to a two-week course of therapy. It should not be used for a longer time unless directed by a physician. After successfully completing the Polyethylene Glycol therapy (usually between one and two weeks) discussion with a physician is needed to change lifestyle that may produce more regular bowel habits (adequate dietary and fluid intake, regular exercise).