Miralax And Senokot: Safe Together?

Miralax and Senokot are both over-the-counter laxatives used to treat constipation. While Miralax is recommended by pharmacists and doctors, Senokot is not recommended for long-term use. Both medications have different active ingredients and mechanisms of action. Miralax, or Polyethylene Glycol, is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the colon, softening stool and stimulating bowel movements. On the other hand, Senokot, or Senna, is a stimulant laxative that triggers bowel contractions. It is important to note that stimulant laxatives like Senokot can lead to laxative dependence if used too frequently. Therefore, it is not recommended to take Miralax and Senokot together without consulting a medical professional first.

Miralax and Senokot are both used to treat constipation

Miralax is the most recommended laxative by pharmacists and doctors. It is also approved for children as young as 2 years old. It is typically used for short-term treatment, but in some cases, it can be used long-term to treat chronic constipation. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation. The typical dosage for adults is 17 grams, mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of water or another beverage, and consumed once daily. It is important to note that Miralax is not recommended for children under 16 years old without the direction of a doctor.

Senokot is also an effective and gentle treatment for occasional constipation. However, it cannot be used as a long-term treatment. It is tolerated well and has few side effects. It is available as a tablet and should be taken with plenty of fluids two to three times a day.

While both Miralax and Senokot can be effective treatments for constipation, they should not be taken together without consulting a doctor or medical professional. It is important to follow the recommended dosages and instructions for each medication and to be aware of any potential side effects. If you are experiencing constipation, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for advice and guidance.

Miralax is the most recommended laxative by pharmacists and doctors

Miralax is also gluten and sugar-free, and it can be used by children as young as two years old. It is important to note that Miralax is not for children 16 years or younger and should be dissolved in a beverage before consumption. Additionally, it may take a few days to work, and it is not recommended for long-term use. If there is no success after a week, it is advisable to consult a doctor for other laxative options.

While Miralax is generally well-tolerated, it has been associated with some serious side effects, including kidney damage, allergy-related hives, and esophageal perforations. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and duration of use to minimise potential risks.

In summary, Miralax is a safe and effective laxative that is gentle on the body and well-tolerated by most people. It is no surprise that it is the top choice for many healthcare professionals when recommending laxatives to their patients.

Senokot is not recommended for long-term treatment

Senokot (senna) is a gentle and effective medication for occasional constipation. However, it is not recommended for long-term treatment. This is because senna is not approved by the FDA for medicinal use, and there is uncertainty regarding its effectiveness in treating any medical condition.

Senna is available over the counter and is often sold as an herbal supplement. It is important to note that herbal supplements are not subject to regulated manufacturing standards, and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Therefore, it is crucial to purchase herbal supplements from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Additionally, senna is intended for short-term use only and should not be taken for more than one week unless directed by a healthcare provider. Chronic or long-term use of senna may lead to several serious side effects. These include intestinal mucosa pigmentation, which usually recedes upon discontinuing the medication, and electrolyte and water equilibrium disorders, which can cause albuminuria and hematuria.

Furthermore, senna may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking senna, especially for those with certain pre-existing medical conditions, such as intestinal blockage, inflammatory bowel disease, electrolyte imbalance, or long-term bowel problems. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult their doctor before taking senna, as it is not recommended for long-term use during pregnancy.

Miralax is not recommended for children under 16

The reason for this recommendation lies in the recent reports of side effects in children, including behavioural issues, speech problems, anxiety, and depression. These side effects have caused concern among parents, leading to an FDA-funded study by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) in 2014. The study was initiated after the FDA found "small amounts of ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol"—the same ingredients found in anti-freeze—in Miralax, as well as 167 cases of adverse side effects in children, 37 of whom displayed neurological or psychiatric symptoms.

While the results of the CHOP study are still pending, the FDA maintains that the labelling for the key ingredient in Miralax, polyethylene glycol or PEG 3350, accurately conveys its risks. The FDA has not found sufficient evidence to warrant additional warnings about neuropsychiatric issues in children.

Experts in the field, such as Dr. David Bunkin, assistant professor of pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology at Mount Sinai in New York City, support the use of Miralax in children. Dr. Bunkin states that the medication has been used safely for a long time in children without any known side effects. He adds that while trace amounts of potentially toxic chemicals were found in batches of Miralax years ago, follow-up screenings have not revealed these chemicals since the ownership of the drug changed hands.

In conclusion, while Miralax is not recommended for children under 16 without medical advice, it has been prescribed off-label by doctors for younger children with success. More research is needed to confirm the safety of Miralax for this age group, and parents should consult their healthcare provider before giving Miralax to children under 16.

Senokot is approved for children as young as 2 years old

Constipation is a common problem, especially for those undergoing treatments for other conditions, such as cancer. It can be caused by a decrease in activity, fluids, or high-fibre foods, as well as certain medications. To treat constipation, doctors may recommend laxatives, such as Miralax and Senokot.

Senokot is a gentle and effective medication for occasional constipation, suitable for both children and adults. It is available in various forms, including tablets, dissolving strips, liquid, and gummies. Notably, Senokot is approved for children as young as 2 years old. This makes it a safe and convenient option for parents seeking relief from their children's constipation.

Senokot contains sennosides, which are derived from the natural senna plant. Sennosides work by keeping water in the intestines, stimulating movement, and encouraging bowel movements. They are known as stimulant laxatives. The medication typically takes effect within 6 to 12 hours, providing relief from constipation.

Senokot is well-tolerated and has few side effects. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the suggested duration of use, which is usually 7 days for adults and 1 week for children, unless otherwise directed by a doctor. Serious side effects may occur with overuse.

Senokot Kids Gummies, for instance, are designed to provide safe, gentle, and effective relief from occasional constipation in children aged 2 and above. They are easy to take, with a great taste that has been approved by kids. The gummies are also free from artificial colours and sweeteners, gluten, dairy, and common allergens, making them a suitable option for children with allergies or dietary restrictions.

In summary, Senokot is a trusted brand that has been recommended by doctors and pharmacists for over 65 years. It is gentle, effective, and safe for children as young as 2, making it a reliable option for parents seeking relief from their children's constipation.

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