Constipation is a common issue for those who have recently given birth, and MiraLAX is often considered as a treatment. But can you take it while nursing? The answer is yes, it is generally considered safe to take MiraLAX while breastfeeding. According to a 2005 literature review from the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), it is a low-risk medication for nursing mothers. This is because only a very small amount of the drug is absorbed into the body, so very little will be passed on to a nursing infant. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication while breastfeeding.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Safe to take while breastfeeding | Yes |
Safe to take during pregnancy | Only when clearly needed |
Active ingredient | Polyethylene glycol 3350 |
Dosage | 17g |
Side effects | Gas, bloating, nausea, abdominal cramping, diarrhoea, allergic reactions |
Drug class | Osmotic laxative |
Administration | Oral powder |
Interactions | Liquid thickeners |
What You'll Learn
Miralax is safe for nursing parents to take
Miralax is an over-the-counter (OTC) laxative medication that is safe for nursing parents to take. It is an osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. This is different from a stimulant laxative, which induces a bowel movement by increasing the contractions of the intestinal muscles.
The active ingredient in Miralax, polyethylene glycol 3350, is minimally absorbed by the body, so very little of the medication will be passed on to a nursing infant. This means that nursing parents can take Miralax to get the benefits of an easier bowel movement without worrying about their baby.
Miralax comes in liquid or powder form. To use it, you would mix the directed amount of medication into a hot or cold drink and consume it. It typically takes a couple of days (usually one to three) for Miralax to produce a bowel movement.
While Miralax is a safe option for nursing parents, it is recommended to try some natural methods first to get things moving. Drinking more water can be beneficial, as staying hydrated can keep milk production at the level needed to nourish your baby. Increasing your water intake can also help soften your stool and stimulate more frequent bowel movements. Eating more high-fibre foods, such as fruits, vegetables, or cereal with bran, is another natural way to promote bowel movements.
If you are experiencing constipation while breastfeeding, Miralax can be a safe and simple solution. However, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations on the best treatment for you.
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It is an over-the-counter drug
MiraLAX is an over-the-counter drug that can be purchased without a prescription. It is a laxative solution that increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements. It is used to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements. The active ingredient in MiraLAX is polyethylene glycol 3350, which works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. This is different from a stimulant laxative, which induces a bowel movement by increasing the contractions of the intestinal muscles.
MiraLAX comes in liquid or powder form. The powder is mixed with a hot or cold beverage such as water, juice, or tea, and should be consumed right away. It usually takes one to three days of using MiraLAX to produce a bowel movement, and it should not be used more than once per day. It is important to follow the directions on the label or as prescribed by a doctor, and not to use it for longer than recommended.
While MiraLAX is generally safe, there are some side effects to be aware of. It can cause gas, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea. It can also cause abdominal cramping, which may be stronger during the postpartum period due to the uterus contracting and shrinking back to its normal size. Additionally, some people may be allergic to polyethylene glycol, the active ingredient in MiraLAX, and rare but severe allergic reactions have been reported.
It is important to note that while MiraLAX is considered safe for breastfeeding parents, it is not known whether polyethylene glycol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare provider before taking MiraLAX while breastfeeding. They can advise on the benefits and risks of taking this medication while nursing and suggest alternative treatments or natural remedies for constipation.
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It is an osmotic laxative
MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative, which is one of the most common types of laxatives. Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. This is different from stimulant laxatives, which induce a bowel movement by increasing the contractions of the intestinal muscles.
MiraLAX is available in liquid or powder form and is typically mixed with a hot or cold beverage before consumption. It usually takes a couple of days of use before a bowel movement occurs. It is important to note that MiraLAX should not be used more than once per day, and if constipation persists after seven consecutive days of use, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
The active ingredient in MiraLAX, polyethylene glycol 3350, is only minimally absorbed by the body, which means very little of the medication will be passed on to a nursing infant. This makes it a safe option for breastfeeding individuals to take. However, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice and recommendations.
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It is not recommended for long-term use
While Miralax is considered safe for use while nursing, it is not recommended for long-term use. This is because Miralax is intended for the short-term treatment of constipation. If you have chronic constipation, you should consult your doctor, who will advise you on the best treatment for you, which may include long-term treatment with Miralax.
Miralax is an over-the-counter, brand-name powder that is used to treat constipation. It is typically used for short-term treatment, but in some cases, it is used long-term to treat chronic constipation. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation.
Miralax is an osmotic laxative, which means it works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and increasing the number of bowel movements. It is important to note that Miralax should not be used for more than seven days without consulting a doctor. Extended use or overuse may result in dependence on laxatives and chronic constipation. Overuse may also cause diarrhoea, dehydration, and mineral imbalance.
Before taking Miralax, it is important to read the manufacturer's package instructions carefully and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. It is also important to tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially if you have nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or a history of stomach or intestinal problems.
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It can cause mild or serious side effects
While Miralax is considered safe to take while nursing, it can cause mild or serious side effects.
The more common side effects of Miralax include:
- Diarrhea or loose stools
- Dehydration
- Allergic reactions
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Weight gain
These side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they're more severe or don't go away, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious side effects of Miralax include:
- Severe or bloody diarrhea
- Blood in your stools
- Severe and worsening stomach pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe dizziness
Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these serious side effects. If your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you're having a medical emergency, call 911.
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Frequently asked questions
MiraLAX is considered safe to take while breastfeeding. It is an over-the-counter drug that is FDA-approved to treat constipation.
The more common side effects of MiraLAX include diarrhoea, loose stools, and bloating. It can also cause abdominal cramping, nausea, and gas.
MiraLAX usually causes a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of taking it.
There are other osmotic laxatives that can be used to treat constipation, such as lactulose and magnesium hydroxide.