Generic
Polyethylene Glycol 3350
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is used for the treatment of occasional constipation in adults (≥18 years). It is an osmotic laxative that retains water in the colon, producing a watery stool, and should be used for 2 weeks or less or as directed by a physician.
Description
Polyethylene Glycol 3350's primary mode of action is through its osmotic effect, causing water to be retained in the colon and producing a watery stool. It induces diarrhea which rapidly cleanses the bowel, usually within four hours. It has no effect on active absorption or secretion of glucose or electrolytes.
Indications
- Occasional constipation in adults (≥18 years)
Therapeutic class
Osmotic purgatives
Pharmacological class
Osmotic Laxative
Pharmacology
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is a synthetic polyglycol with an average molecular weight of 3350. It is an osmotic agent that causes water to be retained with the stool, softening stool and facilitating passage. It has no effect on active absorption or secretion of glucose or electrolytes.
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)
- For up to 2 weeks or as directed by physician
Administration
- Measure with the measuring cup and take by mouth
- Dissolve in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee, or tea
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Abdominal bloating
- Cramping
- Flatulence
- High doses may produce diarrhea and excessive stool frequency (especially in elderly)
- Urticaria (allergic reaction)
Precautions & warnings
- Evaluate for bowel obstruction before initiating (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, distention)
- Consult physician if unusual cramps, bloating, or diarrhea occur
- Do not use for longer than 2 weeks unless directed by physician
Contraindications
- Known or suspected bowel obstruction
- Allergy to polyethylene glycol
Drug interactions
No specific drug interactions have been demonstrated.
Food interactions
Not food-related; it is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Unknown if can cause fetal harm; use only if clearly needed.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: No information on use during breastfeeding; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Safety not established in children (<18 years); consult your doctor.
Geriatric use
High doses may produce excessive stool frequency in elderly; caution required.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
No reports of accidental overdosage; diarrhea expected; dehydration possible without fluid intake; discontinue medication and administer free water.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Polyethylene Glycol 3350