MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative used to treat constipation. Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the colon, softening stools, and making them easier to pass. They are available over the counter and by prescription.
MiraLAX contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) and is typically used for short-term treatment. However, in some cases, it can be used long-term to treat chronic constipation. It is also used for colonoscopy bowel preparation.
MiraLAX is a gentle and effective laxative that works with the water in the body to provide relief from constipation without causing harsh side effects. It is the number one doctor-recommended choice.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Type of laxative | Osmotic |
Active ingredient | Polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) |
Drug form | Powder |
Dosage | 17 grams |
How it works | Attracts water and keeps it in the colon |
Side effects | Diarrhea, Dehydration, Allergic reactions, Bloating, Nausea, Weight gain, Headaches |
Use cases | Constipation, colonoscopy bowel preparation |
What You'll Learn
Miralax is an osmotic laxative
Miralax: An Osmotic Laxative
Miralax is an over-the-counter medication used to treat constipation. It is available as a flavourless powder that can be mixed with water, juice, or other liquids. It is typically used for short-term treatment, but in some cases, it can also be used long-term to treat chronic constipation.
Osmotic laxatives like Miralax are different from other types of laxatives such as emollient, lubricant, and stimulant laxatives. Emollient laxatives use a surfactant called docusate to increase the passage of water and fats into stools. Lubricant laxatives use oily substances like mineral oil to make it easier for stools to pass through the intestine. Stimulant laxatives relieve constipation by causing the intestines to contract and push out stools.
Miralax is recommended by doctors, pharmacists, and gastroenterologists as it provides gentle and effective relief from constipation without causing harsh side effects. It is safe and proven effective. It is also available over the counter without a prescription.
Although Miralax is generally well-tolerated, it can cause mild side effects such as diarrhoea, bloating, nausea, and headaches. It is important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and only use the medication when needed. Prolonged use of laxatives can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, so it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider if constipation persists or if you experience any serious side effects.
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It is used to treat constipation
MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative that is used to treat constipation. It is the #1 doctor-recommended brand for effective relief of occasional constipation. It is also the #1 Physician Recommended OTC brand of laxative.
MiraLAX works by attracting water into the colon, softening stools, and making them easier to pass. It works naturally with the water in the body to hydrate, soften, and ease stool through the colon in 1-3 days. It is different from stimulant laxatives, which forcefully stimulate the nerves in the colon and may cause harsh side effects like cramping or sudden urgency.
MiraLAX is available over the counter and is typically used for short-term treatment. However, in some cases, it is also used long-term to treat chronic constipation. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation.
The typical dosage of MiraLAX for adults is 17 grams. It comes with a measuring cap or device to help determine the correct dose. The powder should be mixed and dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of water or another beverage and consumed once daily. It can be taken with or without food and at any time of the day.
MiraLAX is generally well-tolerated and does not cause harsh side effects. However, some common side effects may include diarrhea or loose stools, bloating, and nausea. It is important to follow the directions on the package or consult a doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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It is available over the counter
MiraLAX is an over-the-counter medication available in most pharmacies and drug stores. It is a brand-name powder used to treat constipation and is recommended for those aged 17 and above. It is also available in single-serve packets. The powder is mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of water, juice, or any other liquid. It is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding people but it is always best to consult a doctor before use.
MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative that works by attracting water into the colon, softening stools, and making them easier to pass. It is a non-stimulant laxative, meaning it does not forcefully stimulate the nerves in the colon to work. Osmotic laxatives like MiraLAX keep water in the colon, allowing them to hydrate and soften stools without causing harsh side effects such as cramping or sudden urgency. It is the number one doctor-recommended choice and is proven safe and effective.
MiraLAX is typically used for short-term treatment, but it can also be used long-term to treat chronic constipation. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation. It is important to note that MiraLAX should not be used for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
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It is safe for use during pregnancy
MiraLAX is an over-the-counter medication used to treat constipation. It is considered safe for short-term use during pregnancy and is often a first-choice recommendation for doctors to ease constipation during this time. It is also recommended by the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) and the American Gastroenterological Association for laxative use during pregnancy.
MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative, which means it works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. This type of laxative is preferred over stimulant laxatives, which can cause harsh side effects like cramping or sudden urgency.
However, there is a lack of studies on the use of MiraLAX in pregnant women, and some doctors may suggest alternative treatments with more research backing their use during pregnancy. These include stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl (Dulcolax) and senna (Fletcher's Laxative).
Before taking any medication during pregnancy, it is important to consult your doctor, especially if your constipation is severe. They will be able to advise on the best course of treatment and check for any underlying causes of your symptoms.
While MiraLAX is generally considered safe, it can cause side effects such as abdominal cramping and diarrhoea, which may be more common in pregnant women already experiencing these issues. It is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and consult a doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
There are also natural strategies that can be tried before resorting to medication. These include increasing fluid intake, consuming high-fibre foods, and regular exercise.
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It has no harsh side effects
MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative that works with the water in your body to gently relieve constipation without causing harsh side effects. Unlike stimulant laxatives, which can cause discomfort and sudden urgency, osmotic laxatives like MiraLAX attract water and keep it in your colon, hydrating and softening stools to unblock your system. This gentle action means that MiraLAX does not cause harsh side effects such as gas, bloating, cramping, or sudden urgency.
MiraLAX is safe and effective, and it is the number one doctor-recommended choice for constipation relief. It is available over the counter and is suitable for short-term and, in some cases, long-term treatment of constipation. It is also recommended for colonoscopy bowel preparation.
While MiraLAX does not cause harsh side effects, it is important to note that, as with any medication, some side effects may occur. The most common side effects of MiraLAX include diarrhoea or loose stools, which may be more likely to occur in older adults. These side effects are typically mild and often go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. However, if they persist or become more severe, it is recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist.
In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as dehydration, especially in older adults, and allergic reactions. If you experience any serious side effects, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Overall, however, MiraLAX is a well-tolerated and safe option for constipation relief, with a low risk of harsh side effects.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Miralax is an osmotic laxative.
Miralax works by attracting water into the colon, hydrating and softening stools, and making them easier to pass.
Common side effects of Miralax include nausea, bloating, cramping, flatulence, and diarrhea.
Miralax typically takes one to three days to cause a bowel movement.
Over-the-counter laxatives like Miralax are usually recommended for short-term use, up to a week. If you need long-term relief, consult your doctor.