Indications
Macrogol 3350 (also called Polyethylene Glycol 3350 or PEG 3350) is an osmotic laxative. It is used to treat occasional and long-term (chronic) constipation in adults, to soften hard stools, and in some products to help clear impacted stool. Higher-dose preparations are used to clean out the bowel before colonoscopy or bowel surgery, as directed by the doctor.
How It Works
Macrogol is a large molecule that is not absorbed from the gut. It holds water in the bowel, so the stool stays soft and bulky and passes more easily. It does not stimulate the bowel muscles directly, so cramping is usually mild.
Dosage and Administration
Constipation in adults: usually 17 g of powder (about one heaped tablespoon or one sachet, depending on the product) dissolved in about 120 to 240 ml of water, juice or tea, once a day. It usually works within 1 to 3 days. For oral solutions, follow the label. Children and bowel preparation for colonoscopy: only as prescribed or directed on the pack. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice unless your doctor has told you to.
Interactions
Few interactions. Because it speeds up bowel movement, it may reduce the absorption of other medicines taken at the same time; take other medicines about 1 hour before or 2 hours after. Thickening agents for swallowing problems may be less effective when mixed with it.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to it, or if you have a blocked or perforated bowel, severe inflammatory bowel disease (such as severe ulcerative colitis or toxic megacolon), severe stomach pain of unknown cause, or nausea and vomiting with abdominal pain.
Side Effects
Bloating, wind, stomach cramps, nausea and loose stools or diarrhoea are the most common. Too much use can cause diarrhoea and loss of salts. Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash or swelling may occur.
Get urgent medical help if you have rectal bleeding, severe or persistent stomach pain, severe diarrhoea with dizziness or weakness, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Very little is absorbed, so it is generally considered suitable for constipation during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using it, and before any bowel preparation.
Precautions and Warnings
See a doctor if constipation is new, lasts more than 2 weeks, or comes with weight loss, blood in the stool or a change in bowel habits. Older people, people with heart or kidney disease, and those taking diuretics should watch for dehydration and salt imbalance. Drink enough fluids. Some products contain added salts; check the label.
Overdose
Too much can cause severe diarrhoea, dehydration and salt imbalance. Stop the medicine, drink fluids and seek medical advice, especially for children, older people or if there is weakness or confusion.
Therapeutic Class
Osmotic laxative.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Use a prepared solution within the time stated on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.