Miralax Dependency: Is It Real?

Miralax (Polyethylene Glycol 3350) is an over-the-counter powder 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. The active ingredient in Miralax, PEG 3350, is a very large polymer that is too big to be absorbed by the intestine. When consumed, it stays in the gut and holds water, making stools soft and easy to pass. PEG 3350 does not work on the muscles or nerves of the gut, so it is not habit-forming and does not cause dependence on the product. However, stimulant laxatives can cause laxative dependence when taken long-term.

Miralax is not habit-forming

Miralax is an over-the-counter, brand-name powder used to treat constipation. It is typically used for short-term treatment but can also be used long-term to treat chronic constipation. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the product label carefully and not to use it for longer than a week without consulting a doctor.

PEG 3350 has been extensively studied for its effectiveness in treating chronic constipation, and no significant effects from long-term use have been reported in pediatric gastroenterology literature. However, the FDA has awarded a research grant to further investigate the safety of Miralax, specifically regarding potential behavioural side effects and the presence of trace amounts of ethylene glycol (EG) and diethylene glycol (DEG) in the product.

While Miralax is generally considered safe, it is always best to speak with a physician or nutritionist before taking it, especially if you plan on using it for an extended period. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, stomach problems, or irritable bowel syndrome, should consult their doctor before using Miralax or other laxatives.

Miralax is not meant for long-term use

Miralax is an over-the-counter medication 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 important to note that Miralax is not meant for long-term use and should only be taken as directed by a doctor or according to the instructions on the product package.

Potential Side Effects

Miralax can cause mild or serious side effects, including diarrhea, loose stools, dehydration, allergic reactions, bloating, nausea, and abdominal pain or cramps. While these side effects may be more common in the first few weeks of use and may decrease over time, long-term use may increase the risk of experiencing these side effects.

Risk of Dependency

Extended use or overuse of Miralax may result in dependence on laxatives and chronic constipation. The body may become accustomed to the effects of Miralax, leading to a reliance on the medication to have a bowel movement. This can cause severe constipation when the medication is stopped.

Interference with Other Medications

Miralax can interact with other medications, including certain diuretics, and may increase the risk of serious side effects such as muscle weakness and heart rhythm problems. It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking Miralax with other medications to avoid potential interactions.

Not a Substitute for Lifestyle Changes

While Miralax can be effective in providing short-term relief from constipation, it should not be relied upon as a long-term solution. Constipation can often be managed through lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre intake, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity. Making these lifestyle changes can help improve digestive health and reduce the need for long-term laxative use.

Evaluation by a Doctor

If you are experiencing chronic constipation, it is important to consult a doctor for an evaluation. They can determine the underlying cause of your constipation and recommend the best treatment approach, which may include long-term treatment with Miralax or other alternatives.

Miralax is FDA-approved

Miralax is an FDA-approved over-the-counter powder medication 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. The active ingredient in Miralax is polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350), which is an osmotic laxative. This means it works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and stimulating the colon to contract, making it easier to pass bowel movements.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Miralax for adults only due to a lack of clinical trials in children. However, the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) still recommends Miralax for the short- and long-term treatment of constipation in children. It is important to consult a doctor before giving Miralax to children, as they will recommend the most appropriate dosage.

Miralax is generally well-tolerated and does not usually cause harsh side effects. The most common side effects are diarrhea or loose stools, bloating, and nausea. However, it is important to note that, similar to other laxatives, Miralax should not be used for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor. Long-term use of laxatives can lead to laxative dependence, where the body becomes dependent on the drug to function normally.

Miralax was first approved by the FDA in 1999 and is available in bottles or single-serve packets. It is typically mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of water, juice, or other liquids and consumed once daily. It is recommended to use the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

Miralax is safe for use during pregnancy

Miralax is considered safe for short-term use during pregnancy. It is often a first-choice medication for doctors to ease constipation in pregnant people. However, there haven't been many studies on the use of Miralax in pregnant women, so some doctors may suggest other drugs with more research supporting their use during pregnancy.

Miralax is an over-the-counter (OTC) laxative medication used to treat constipation. It is an osmotic laxative, which means it works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. The active ingredient in Miralax, polyethylene glycol 3350, is only minimally absorbed by the body. Therefore, it is unlikely to affect a fetus if taken by a pregnant person. This is supported by studies on pregnant animals, which showed no harm to the fetus.

While Miralax is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause side effects such as gas, bloating, nausea, cramping, diarrhoea, and hives. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the package carefully, as taking more than the recommended amount may lead to diarrhoea and dehydration, which can be dangerous during pregnancy.

Before using any medication during pregnancy, it is essential to consult a doctor, especially if constipation is severe, to ensure it is the best option for your circumstances.

Miralax is safe for use while breastfeeding

Miralax is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder that’s used to treat constipation. It is FDA-approved and typically used for short-term treatment, but in some cases, it’s used long-term to treat chronic constipation. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation.

Miralax is considered safe for use while breastfeeding. According to a 2005 literature review from the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), Miralax is considered low-risk for use during breastfeeding. This is because it is very poorly absorbed by the body and, therefore, is unlikely to affect a child who is breastfed.

The medications in some laxatives might get into the mother’s bloodstream, but the amount that passes into breast milk is usually low. Mineral oil can enter the bloodstream and breast milk in greater amounts, so it should be used carefully.

There are occasional reports of loose stools in infants exposed to laxatives from breastfeeding. Contact a healthcare professional to discuss information on your specific laxative medication.

Side Effects of Miralax

Miralax can cause mild or serious side effects. The more common side effects of Miralax include:

• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Dehydration
• Allergic reactions
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Weight gain
• Headaches

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, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently asked questions