Miralax Laxative Effect: Safe Usage And Guidelines

MiraLAX is a gentle laxative that treats occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements. It is available over-the-counter and in generic form. The active ingredient in MiraLAX is polyethylene glycol 3350, which increases the water content in the intestines to stimulate bowel movements. The standard dose for adults is 17 grams, which should be mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of water or another beverage. It is important to follow the instructions and not take more than the recommended dose, as overuse may result in diarrhoea, dehydration, and mineral imbalance.

How to measure the correct dose of Miralax

To measure the correct dose of MiraLAX, follow these steps:

Firstly, open the MiraLAX bottle and look inside the cap. MiraLAX bottles come with lids that double as measuring caps. While the outside of the cap is purple, the underside is white up to a line that indicates the correct dosage of 17 grams.

Next, fill the cap with MiraLAX powder up to the 17-gram line. Gently tap or shake the cap to level out the powder and ensure it is at the correct dosage. If you are using single-use packets, simply pour the contents of one packet into your chosen beverage.

It is important to note that the standard dose for adults and children aged 17 and above is 17 grams. However, for younger children, a half-dose may be recommended, which would be filled to halfway up the line in the cap. Always consult a doctor for the correct dosage for children, as it may vary depending on their age and weight.

Once you have measured the correct dosage, you can proceed to mix the powder with 4 to 8 fluid ounces of liquid, such as water, juice, coffee, or tea. MiraLAX is flavourless and can be mixed with both hot and cold beverages. Avoid mixing it with alcoholic or carbonated beverages.

Stir the mixture until the powder is completely dissolved, and then drink it within 10 to 15 minutes. It is not recommended to prepare the mixture ahead of time as it may thicken and become hard to drink. You should also avoid taking more than one dose per day unless instructed by your doctor.

MiraLAX is typically used for short-term treatment of constipation and should not be used for more than 7 consecutive days without consulting a doctor. It is important to follow the correct dosage instructions and not exceed the recommended amount.

What liquids to mix Miralax with

Miralax is a flavourless powder that can be mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of water or another beverage. It is important to note that Miralax should not be mixed with alcoholic or carbonated beverages.

Some liquids that can be used to mix Miralax include:

• Water: It is recommended to use at least 4 ounces of water to fully dissolve a single dose of Miralax. While it can be mixed with plain water, some people may prefer flavoured water.
• Juice: Options include orange juice, apple juice, or cranberry juice. The strong flavour of the juice can help mask any taste from the Miralax.
• Tea: Hot tea can be used, and some people find that herbal tea helps to hide any taste from the powder.
• Coffee: Hot or cold coffee can be used, but it is important to ensure that the powder is fully dissolved before drinking.
• Sports drinks: For colonoscopy preparation, sports drinks like Gatorade are often recommended to replace electrolytes. However, the liquid should not be red, purple, orange, or any other dark colour.

It is important to note that Miralax should not be mixed with food, as it can change the consistency of the food and may not be as effective. Additionally, it should not be mixed with starch-based thickeners used for difficulty swallowing.

How long it takes for Miralax to work

MiraLAX is a laxative that is used to treat constipation and irregular bowel movements. It is available over the counter and comes in the form of a powder that can be stirred into hot or cold beverages. The powder is typically dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of water, juice, or another liquid. It can be taken with or without food.

MiraLAX usually takes between 1 to 3 days to work, although it may take up to 7 days for some individuals. It is recommended to take MiraLAX once a day and not more than 7 days in a row without consulting a doctor. If you do not experience a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of taking MiraLAX, this could be a sign of a blockage in the intestines, and you should consult your healthcare provider.

The time it takes for MiraLAX to work may vary depending on the individual and their degree of constipation. It is important to follow the instructions on the package or consult a doctor for specific dosing instructions.

For colonoscopy bowel preparation, the timing of MiraLAX's effects will be different. In this case, it is typically taken the day before the procedure and will cause a bowel movement within a few hours.

Side effects of Miralax

Miralax is generally well-tolerated, and many people do not experience any side effects. However, as with any medication, side effects are possible, and it's important to be aware of them before taking the medication. Here is some information on the side effects of Miralax:

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea or loose stools: This is a common side effect, especially in older adults. It can also be more likely to occur if you take more than the recommended dosage.
• Bloating: This was a common side effect observed in studies of the drug. It may decrease or go away with continued use.
• Nausea: This side effect may also decrease or resolve with continued use of Miralax.
• Headaches: It is unclear if Miralax directly causes headaches.
• Weight gain: Some users have reported weight gain while taking Miralax, but it is uncertain if Miralax is the direct cause.

Serious Side Effects:

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following rare but serious side effects:

• Dehydration: Diarrhea caused by Miralax can lead to fluid loss and dehydration, especially in older adults.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions can occur and may include anaphylaxis. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing and swollen lips, tongue, or throat.
• Rectal bleeding: Discontinue use and seek medical advice if you experience rectal bleeding.
• Worsening abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating: Severe stomach pain or discomfort that worsens or persists may indicate a serious condition.
• Severe or bloody diarrhea: This may be a sign of a serious reaction.
• Eye symptoms: Symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or swelling, or seeing halos around lights.
• Heart symptoms: Including fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat, fluttering in the chest, shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
• Neurological symptoms: Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, weakness in arms or legs, trouble walking, loss of coordination, stiff muscles, high fever, excessive sweating, or tremors.

This list of side effects is not exhaustive, and there may be other rare or unusual side effects. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns or experience any adverse reactions while taking Miralax.

How long to take Miralax for

Miralax is a laxative used to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements. It is available over the counter and in generic form. The usual dose is 17 grams (about 1 heaping tablespoon) of powder per day, in 4 to 8 ounces of water. It is recommended to take Miralax once a day for up to 7 consecutive days. It is not meant to be taken for more than 7 days in a row without consulting a doctor.

Miralax is intended for short-term treatment of constipation. However, in some cases, it can be used long-term to treat chronic constipation. If you have long-lasting constipation, consult your doctor, who will advise on the best treatment, which may include long-term use of Miralax.

Miralax typically causes a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of taking it. If you have severe constipation, you may need to take Miralax twice a day for the first three days. After you start having daily soft bowel movements, reduce the dosage to once a day. You may need to adjust the dose depending on bowel results after 4-5 days.

If you develop loose stools, stop taking Miralax for 2 days and then restart at a lower dose. If you experience any unusual bloating, cramps, or diarrhea, call your doctor.

Frequently asked questions