Aqualax

Indications

Polyethylene glycol 3350 (also called macrogol 3350) is a laxative. It is used for short-term and long-term constipation, and, at higher doses under medical supervision, for faecal impaction (hard, stuck stool) and to clean out the bowel before a colonoscopy or surgery. Many products also contain salts (electrolytes).

How It Works

It is an osmotic laxative: it holds water in the bowel, which softens the stool and increases its volume so it passes more easily. It is hardly absorbed into the body.

Dosage and Administration

Constipation, adults: usually 1 sachet (about 13 to 17 g, depending on the product) dissolved in about 125 to 250 ml of water once a day; the dose may be adjusted between 1 and 3 sachets a day according to the response or the label. It usually works within 1 to 3 days. Oral solution: follow the label. Children, faecal impaction and bowel preparation: only as prescribed, following the exact instructions given.

Interactions

It may reduce the absorption of other medicines taken at the same time, so take other medicines at least 1 hour apart. It can stop starch-based thickeners (used for people with swallowing problems) from working.

Contraindications

• Blockage or a hole (perforation) in the gut, or a bowel that has stopped moving (ileus).
• Severe inflammatory bowel disease, such as severe ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease or toxic megacolon.
• Allergy to polyethylene glycol or any ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

Bloating, tummy cramps, wind, nausea and loose stools or diarrhoea, especially at higher doses.

Get urgent medical help if you have:

• Severe or worsening tummy pain, or bleeding from the back passage.
• Severe diarrhoea with dizziness, weakness or very little urine (dehydration).
• Swelling of the face, lips or throat, rash or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Very little is absorbed, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed. Ask your doctor first.

Precautions and Warnings

See a doctor if constipation does not improve after about a week of treatment, or if you have blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss or a sudden change in bowel habits. Do not use long term without medical advice. People with heart or kidney disease should use products with salts only as advised. Drink enough fluids.

Overdose

Too much causes diarrhoea and can lead to dehydration and salt imbalance. Stop taking it, drink fluids, and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe.

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 24 hours unless the label says otherwise.