
Metamucil and Miralax are both over-the-counter medications used to treat constipation. Metamucil is a bulk-forming laxative that contains psyllium, a soluble fibre. Miralax, on the other hand, is an osmotic laxative that contains polyethylene glycol. While there are no known drug interactions between the two medications, it is not recommended to take Metamucil and Miralax together without consulting a healthcare provider first. Taking multiple laxatives at the same time may increase the likelihood and severity of side effects such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and fluid and electrolyte loss.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Should you take Miralax and Metamucil together? | Probably not. Although these medications do not chemically interact, it's best to check with a healthcare provider before taking more than one medication that treats constipation. |
What are Miralax and Metamucil? | Miralax and Metamucil are both over-the-counter (OTC) medicines used to treat constipation. |
How do they work? | Metamucil is a bulk-forming laxative that contains psyllium, a soluble fiber. Miralax is an osmotic laxative that contains polyethylene glycol. |
How do you take them? | Metamucil is available in many dosage forms, including powders, granules, capsules, liquids, and wafers. Miralax is a powder that can be dissolved in any beverage. |
How long do they take to work? | Metamucil usually produces a bowel movement in 12 to 72 hours. Miralax generally produces a bowel movement in one to three days. |
Are there any side effects? | Metamucil may cause difficulty breathing or swallowing, nausea, and/or vomiting. Miralax may cause loose, watery, and more frequent stools. |
Precautions | Metamucil: Do not use if allergic to psyllium, avoid breathing in the powder, take with enough fluid to avoid choking, and do not use if you have difficulty swallowing. Miralax: Do not use if allergic to polyethylene glycol or if you have kidney problems without consulting a healthcare provider. |
What You'll Learn
Metamucil and Miralax can be taken together but it is not recommended
Metamucil and Miralax are both over-the-counter medications used to treat constipation. Metamucil is a bulk-forming laxative that contains psyllium, a soluble fibre. It helps with constipation and, when taken regularly, may have other benefits, such as lowering blood sugar and cholesterol. Miralax, on the other hand, is an osmotic laxative that contains polyethylene glycol. It works by retaining water in the stool, helping to increase the number of bowel movements and soften the stool, making it easier to pass.
While there are no known drug interactions between Metamucil and Miralax, it is not recommended to take them together. Both Metamucil and Miralax are laxatives, and taking more than one laxative at the same time may increase the likelihood or severity of side effects, such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and fluid and electrolyte losses. Therefore, it is generally advised to use only one agent for the short-term treatment of constipation. If you are considering taking Metamucil and Miralax together or are unsure if one of these medications is appropriate for you, it is best to consult your healthcare provider for personalised medical advice.
It is worth noting that Metamucil and Miralax have different side effects and safety profiles. Metamucil may cause difficulty breathing or swallowing, nausea, and/or vomiting, while Miralax may cause loose, watery, and more frequent stools. Additionally, Metamucil may affect how other medications are absorbed, so it should be taken at least two hours before or after any other oral medications. Similarly, Miralax may affect drug absorption, so it should be taken at least one hour before or after other oral medications.
If you are experiencing constipation, there are also some lifestyle changes you can try in addition to or instead of medication. These include drinking plenty of water or other unsweetened drinks, slowly increasing your fibre intake by incorporating high-fibre foods into your diet, and exercising regularly. Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Motegrity: Why the High Cost?
You may want to see also
Metamucil is a bulk-forming laxative
Metamucil is commonly used to relieve occasional constipation and can be taken daily. It typically produces a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours of taking a dose. It is important to note that Metamucil should be taken with plenty of liquid to avoid choking or blockage of the throat or oesophagus. The recommended amount is one full glass (at least 8 ounces) of water or other liquid.
In addition to treating constipation, Metamucil may also be used to lower cholesterol when combined with a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fat. Some studies also suggest that regular use of Metamucil may help to lower blood sugar and blood pressure.
Metamucil is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may include gas, bloating, nausea, and abdominal cramping. More serious side effects include difficulty swallowing or breathing, and allergic reactions such as hives, itching, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking Metamucil, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any existing health conditions. Additionally, Metamucil may affect how the body absorbs other medications, so it is recommended to take it at least two hours before or after any other oral medications.
Almond Milk: Nature's Laxative?
You may want to see also
Miralax is an osmotic laxative
Osmotic laxatives like Miralax attract water and keep it in your colon, allowing them to hydrate and soften stools, unblocking your system without causing harsh side effects. In contrast, stimulant laxatives make your body go by forcefully stimulating the nerves in your colon. They may also cause harsh side effects like cramping or sudden urgency.
Miralax is the number one doctor-recommended choice for constipation relief. It is a nonstimulant laxative that works with the water in your body to give you gentle, effective relief from occasional constipation without harsh side effects. It is available over the counter and is typically used for short-term treatment, but in some cases, it’s used long-term to treat chronic (long-lasting) constipation.
The active ingredient in Miralax is polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). Polyethylene glycol is made by stringing together molecules of ethylene glycol into a large polymer chain. On its own, ethylene glycol is used in automotive antifreeze and brake fluid. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, it is an extremely toxic substance.
The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons' Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Constipation recommends initially managing constipation with dietary modifications, including fiber supplements. The guidelines also state that an osmotic laxative like Miralax is a safe and appropriate treatment for chronic (ongoing) constipation.
Metamucil and Colace: Safe Together?
You may want to see also
Metamucil is a fibre supplement
Metamucil is a bulk-forming laxative that relieves occasional constipation by adding bulk to stools and stimulating the intestines to contract and move stool through the digestive tract. It typically produces a bowel movement in 12 to 72 hours and can be taken as a fibre supplement to maintain regular bowel movements. Metamucil may also help lower blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol when taken regularly. It is available without a prescription and is generally inexpensive, especially the generic products.
However, Metamucil may take up to three days to work, and it may need to be taken up to three times daily. It is important to take Metamucil with enough fluid to avoid choking. It should not be taken if you have difficulty swallowing, and it may cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to inhaled or ingested psyllium. It can also affect how other medications are absorbed, so it is recommended to take Metamucil at least two hours before or after any other oral medications.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking Metamucil, especially if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Additionally, those with a sudden change in bowel habits for over two weeks or experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting should consult a doctor before taking Metamucil.
Stopping Laxatives: Constipating Effects
You may want to see also
Miralax is not recommended for long-term use
Miralax is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder that is used to treat constipation. It is typically used for short-term treatment, but in some cases, it can be used long-term to treat chronic constipation. However, it is not recommended for long-term use for several reasons.
Firstly, Miralax is not recommended for long-term use because it may cause dependence on laxatives and chronic constipation. Overuse of Miralax may also lead to diarrhea, dehydration, and mineral imbalances such as low sodium levels in the body. It is important to note that Miralax should not be used for more than two weeks unless directed by a doctor. Extended use beyond the recommended duration may result in these adverse side effects.
Secondly, Miralax has been associated with adverse events in children, particularly when used chronically or long-term. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received reports of neurological and psychiatric events in children taking Miralax or other medications containing polyethylene glycol (PEG). As a result, the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) recommends that parents discuss Miralax use with their child's healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits of treatment.
Thirdly, Miralax may interact with certain liquid thickeners, affecting their effectiveness. It is important to consult a pharmacist to select a liquid thickener that will not interfere with Miralax. Additionally, Miralax may affect how other medications are absorbed, so it is important to take it at least one hour before or after any other oral medications to avoid potential drug interactions.
Lastly, while Miralax is generally well-tolerated, it may cause mild or serious side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include diarrhea, loose stools, bloating, and nausea. More severe side effects may include allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, itching, and swelling of the face, tongue, or throat. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare provider if any unusual problems or severe side effects occur while taking Miralax, and to discontinue use if constipation lasts longer than one week.
In summary, while Miralax can be an effective short-term treatment for constipation, it is not recommended for long-term use due to the potential risks of laxative dependence, adverse side effects, drug interactions, and adverse events in children. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure the safe and appropriate use of Miralax.
Linzess: Prokinetic or Not?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Although there are no known interactions between the two drugs, it is not recommended to take Metamucil and Miralax together. Taking more than one laxative or stool softener at the same time may increase the likelihood or severity of side effects.
Miralax and Metamucil are both over-the-counter medications used to treat constipation. They are different types of laxatives and work differently. Miralax is an osmotic laxative that contains polyethylene glycol, while Metamucil is a bulk-forming laxative that contains psyllium, a soluble fibre.
Common side effects of Metamucil include difficulty breathing or swallowing, and nausea and/or vomiting. Miralax may cause loose, watery, and more frequent stools. Both medications may cause abdominal cramps, bloating, and/or gas.