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- Hemorrhoids Slideshow Pictures
- Constipation: Foods to Eat, Foods to Avoid
- What is polyethylene glycol? What is polyethylene glycol used for?
- What are the side effects of polyethylene glycol?
- What is the dosage for polyethylene glycol?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with polyethylene glycol?
- Is polyethylene glycol safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
- What else should I know about polyethylene glycol?
What is polyethylene glycol? What is polyethylene glycol 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 brand names are available for polyethylene glycol (peg) 3350-oral?
Miralax, Glycolax
Is polyethylene glycol (peg) 3350-oral available as a generic drug?
Yes
Do I need a prescription for polyethylene glycol (peg) 3350-oral?
No
What are the side effects of polyethylene glycol?
Side effects of polyethylene glycol are diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, and flatulence. Patients with have 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 or supplements 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 SlideshowIs polyethylene glycol safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known whether polyethylene glycol enters the breast milk.
What else should I know about polyethylene glycol?
What preparations of polyethylene glycol (peg) 3350-oral are available?
Powder for 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 (Miralax, Glycolax) is a drug used to treat occasional constipation and for bowel preparation prior to procedures. Side effects, drug interactions, dosing, storage, and pregnancy and breastfeeding information should be reviewed prior to using this medications.
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Colitis
Colitis refers to inflammation of the inner lining of the colon. Symptoms of the inflammation of the colon lining include diarrhea, pain, and blood in the stool. There are several causes of colitis, including infection, ischemia of the colon, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, infectious colitis like C. difficile, or microscopic colitis). Treatment depends on the cause of the colitis.
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Laxatives for Constipation
Laxatives types for treatment of constipation include over-the-counter (OTC) preparations, for example, bulk-forming laxatives, stool softeners, lubricant laxatives, stimulant or saline laxatives, enemas, and suppositories. Some OTC laxatives are not recommended for people with specific diseases or conditions (for example, people with diabetes). Some laxatives may have negative side effects if taken over a long time. Laxatives are not recommended for weight loss.
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Diarrhea (Causes, Medicine, Remedies, Treatment)
Diarrhea is a change is the frequency and looseness of bowel movements. Symptoms associated with diarrhea are cramping, abdominal pain, and the sensation of rectal urgency. Causes of diarrhea include viral, bacterial, or parasite infection, gastroenteritis, food poisoning, and drugs. Absorbents and anti-motility medications are used to treat diarrhea.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a GI (gastrointestinal) disorder with signs and symptoms that include abdominal pain, bloating, increased gas (flatulence), abdominal cramping, diarrhea, constipation, and food intolerance.Two new tests are now available that may help diagnose irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea and constipation (IBS-M) irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). Treatment for IBS includes diet changes, medications, and other lifestyle changes to manage symptoms.
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Why Am I So Bloated and Gassy?
Bloating is a feeling that your abdomen is distended or larger than normal, but it does not necessarily mean that it is. Gas (flatulence) also can be a problem if you are bloated. Common, less serious causes of bloating are eating too fast, too much, or too many fatty foods; swallowing air; pregnancy; and menstruation. Cancer and IBD (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) are examples the more serious causes of bloating. Examples of foods and drinks that cause bloating are high fiber foods if you don't eat them regularly; eventually the bloating and gassiness will resolve if you eat them on a regular basis; fatty greasy foods, dairy products (for example, cheese, ice cream, milk, and yogurt); foods high in salt (for example, processed, frozen, and canned foods), and artificial sweeteners. Some doctors and other health care professionals recommend natural remedies like chamomile or peppermint tea, or pumpkin to relieve bloating. Examples of OTC medicine (medicine available without a prescription) and other products that may relieve bloating and gassiness are, Gas-X, Beano, Pepto Bismol, Metamucil, probiotics, and Ex-Lax for constipation associated with bloating. If you have persistent or severe gas and bloating, and if you have any of these symptoms see a doctor or other healthcare professional, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, chest pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, or if you think you are or may be pregnant.
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Constipation (Relief, Home Remedies, Treatment Medications)
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IBS Triggers (Prevention)
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Ulcerative Colitis
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Intestinal Problems of IBD)
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Microscopic Colitis (Lymphocytic Colitis and Collagenous Colitis)
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children (IBS)
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