Miralax: Quick Constipation Relief

Miralax is an over-the-counter medication used to treat constipation. It is an osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. It typically takes 12 to 24 hours for Miralax to take effect, but it can take up to 96 hours in some cases. It is recommended to take Miralax once a day for up to seven days. It is important to consult a doctor if constipation persists or worsens after seven days of using Miralax.

How long does it take to work?

Miralax is an over-the-counter medication used to treat constipation. It is an osmotic laxative that contains polyethylene glycol 3350. It works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. It typically takes 12 to 24 hours for Miralax to take effect, but it can take up to 96 hours in some cases. This is because Miralax does not directly stimulate the intestines like some other laxatives. Instead, it works gradually and gently to provide relief from constipation.

The time it takes for Miralax to work can vary depending on several factors:

• Dosage: The recommended dose for occasional constipation is one pack (17 grams) dissolved in 4-8 ounces of liquid, which takes 24-96 hours to work. For bowel preparation, a higher dose of 238 grams is recommended, and it is usually taken with a stimulant laxative, which can reduce the time it takes to work.
• Severity of constipation: Miralax may take longer to work if you are severely constipated.
• Cause of constipation: If your constipation is caused by something other than dry, hard stool (such as medications or intestinal dysfunction), Miralax might take longer or be less effective.
• Existing conditions: Chronic constipation or constipation from gastrointestinal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or intestinal obstructions can impact how long it takes for Miralax to work.
• Average digestion speed: The speed at which food passes through the colon varies from person to person, affecting the hardness or softness of the stool.

It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not to take more than one dose per day, as taking too much Miralax can increase the risk of side effects such as diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, and abdominal cramping. If you do not experience relief from constipation after taking Miralax for up to seven days, consult your healthcare provider.

What are the side effects?

Miralax is an over-the-counter medication used to treat constipation. It is considered safe for use by adults and adolescents over 17 years of age, and is also effective for treating constipation in younger children and babies under 2 years of age. However, it should not be given to young children without the direction of a doctor. It is also considered safe in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, but it is recommended to consult a doctor before use.

Side Effects

Miralax can cause a range of side effects, from mild to serious. The more common side effects include:

• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Headaches
• Increased sweating

These side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they persist or become more severe, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

More serious side effects may include:

• Dehydration, especially in older adults
• Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis
• Severe or bloody diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding
• Severe or worsening stomach pain, cramping, or bloating
• Severe eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
• Serious heart symptoms such as fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in the chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors

If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

It is important to note that this list may not be exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Always read the manufacturer's package instructions carefully and consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

Who shouldn't take it?

Who should not take Miralax?

Even though Miralax is considered a safe medication, some people with specific health conditions should avoid using it. This includes individuals with:

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• A perforated bowel (a hole in the bowel)
• A previous allergic reaction or known allergy to any ingredient in Miralax
• Kidney disease—patients with kidney disease should be cautious when using Miralax and consult their healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits.

Additionally, while Miralax may be safe for children, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before administering it to infants, toddlers, or children. Similarly, while Miralax is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider before taking any new medication during these periods.

How does it work?

Miralax is an over-the-counter medication used to treat constipation. It is an osmotic laxative that contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). It works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. This helps to increase the volume and water content of the stool, making it softer and more pliable.

Unlike some other laxatives, Miralax does not directly stimulate the intestines. This means that it can take longer to work, usually within 12 to 24 hours, but it can take up to 96 hours in some cases. It is important to note that Miralax is not a stimulant laxative and does not cause a sudden feeling of urgency.

The recommended dose for adults and children ages 17 and older is 17 grams of powder once a day. It should be mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of liquid and can be taken with hot, cold, or room-temperature beverages. It is important to follow the instructions on the label for correct dosing.

Miralax is generally well-tolerated and does not cause harsh side effects like gas, bloating, cramping, or sudden urgency. However, some people may experience mild side effects such as loose stools, watery stools, or more frequent bowel movements. It is important to stay hydrated and increase your fibre intake while taking Miralax to help the medication work effectively.

If you are still experiencing constipation after seven days of taking Miralax, it is recommended to stop the medication and consult a healthcare provider.

How much should you take?

The typical dosage of Miralax for adults is 17 grams. The product will come with a measuring cap or device to help you determine the correct dose. You will mix and dissolve the powder in 4 to 8 ounces of water or another beverage and consume it once daily.

If you are prescribed the individual packets, mix the powder as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. If you are using the bulk bottle, use the provided cap to measure the prescribed dose.

If you are using Miralax for colonoscopy preparation, your doctor will give you specific instructions for how to use it.

It is important to note that you should not take Miralax for more than 7 days without talking to your doctor. Your doctor may want to evaluate the cause of your constipation. Your doctor may find that you need other treatments.

Miralax is intended for the short-term treatment of constipation. If you have chronic constipation, you should be evaluated by your doctor. Your doctor will decide the best treatment for you, which may include long-term treatment with Miralax.

Frequently asked questions