Generic
Polyethylene Glycol
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Polyethylene Glycol is an osmotic laxative used for the treatment of constipation and for cleaning and preparation of intestines prior to medical procedures or examination. It draws water into the intestine through osmosis, making stool soft and easier to pass.
Description
Polyethylene Glycol is an osmotic agent that retains water in the intestine through osmosis, softening stool and facilitating passage. It has no effect on active absorption or secretion of glucose or electrolytes.
Indications
- Constipation
- Intestine preparation before any surgery
Therapeutic class
Laxative preparations
Pharmacological class
Osmotic Laxative
Pharmacology
Polyethylene Glycol retains water in the intestine through osmosis, increasing stool volume and water content, softening stool and facilitating passage. It does not interfere with active transport or electrolyte secretion.
Mechanism of action
Softens stool by drawing water into the intestine through osmosis.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Usual dose: 17 gm powder per day in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee, or tea
- Use the provided cup to measure 17 gm or 8.5 gm (fill to marked line)
Administration
- Measure with the measuring cup and take by mouth
- Shake well before use
- May be taken with or without food; better to take at a fixed time
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, skip it and continue with your normal schedule; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
Precautions & warnings
- Take at least 2 hours after taking other medicines (may interfere with absorption)
- Inform doctor if history of appendicitis or bowel obstruction
- It is not known whether it alters ability to drive
Contraindications
- Known or suspected bowel obstruction
- Allergy to polyethylene glycol
Drug interactions
No known interactions.
Food interactions
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Polyethylene Glycol.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe during pregnancy; animal studies have shown harmful effects; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Information regarding use during breastfeeding is not available; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Safety not established in children; consult your doctor.
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients; consult your doctor.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Probably safe in kidney disease; dose adjustment may not be needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information on use in liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause excessive diarrhea and fluid/electrolyte disturbances; treatment: discontinue drug, fluid replacement, electrolyte monitoring.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Polyethylene Glycol