Generic Name: polyethylene glycol 3350
Brand Names: Miralax, Glycolax
Drug Class: Laxatives, Osmotic, Bowel Preps
What is polyethylene glycol, and what is it used for?
Polyethylene glycol is an osmotic laxative. Polyethylene glycol works by retaining water in the stool, resulting in softer stools and more frequent bowel movements. Polyethylene glycol does not affect glucose and electrolytes in the body.
What are the side effects of polyethylene glycol?
Side effects of polyethylene glycol are
- diarrhea,
- nausea,
- stomach cramps, and
- flatulence.
People with kidney disease should consult with their doctor before using this product.
What is the dosage for polyethylene glycol?
Adults and children 17 years of age and older
- For constipation stir and dissolve one packet or scoopful of powder (17 grams) in any 4 to 8 ounces of water then drink once a day.
- Use no more than 7 days.
Safe and effective use of polyethylene glycol is not established for children under 16 years of age.
Which drugs interact with polyethylene glycol?
- No drug interactions have been established with polyethylene glycol.

SLIDESHOW
How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids: Types, Causes, and Treatments See SlideshowPregnancy and breastfeeding
It is not known whether polyethylene glycol enters the breast milk or if it is safe to use during pregnancy.
What else should I know about polyethylene glycol?
What preparations of polyethylene glycol (peg) 3350-oral are available?
- Powder for a solution, supplied in packets and jars: 17 g per scoopful or packet
How should I keep polyethylene glycol (peg) 3350-oral stored?
- Store polyethylene glycol packets and jars between temperatures of 20 C and 25 C (68 F and 77 F).
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Summary
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a drug used to treat occasional constipation and for bowel preparation prior to procedures. Side effects of polyethylene glycol are diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, and flatulence. People with kidney disease should consult with their doctor before using this product. Consult your doctor before taking if pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Treatment & Diagnosis
- Tummy Trouble FAQs
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- Ulcerative Colitis FAQs
- Crohn's Disease FAQs
- Constipation FAQs
- The Truth About Poop FAQs
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- Generic Drugs, Are They as Good as Brand-Names?
Medications & Supplements
- Side Effects of Miralax (polyethylene glycol)
- lactulose laxative (Enulose, Generlac)
- Polyethylene Glycol 400/Propylene Glycol Ophthalmic
- irritant or stimulant laxatives - oral
- iron w/stool softener sustained-release - oral
- bulk-forming laxatives - oral
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) and Electrolytes
- stool softeners/stimulant combination laxatives - oral
- senna/docusate
- propylene glycol/polyethylene glycol gel - nasal, Rhinaris
- propylene glycol/polyethylene glycol spray - nasal, Rhinaris
Prevention & Wellness

QUESTION
You are constipated if you don't have a bowel movement every day. See AnswerHealth Solutions From Our Sponsors

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