Understanding Miralax: A Polyethylene Glycol-Based Laxative Option

Miralax is an over-the-counter medication used to treat constipation. It is a non-stimulant, osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into the colon to soften the stool and stimulate bowel movements. This category of laxative is recommended for people who experience chronic constipation or irregular bowel movements.

Miralax is an osmotic laxative

Miralax is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder that is used to treat constipation. It contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) and belongs to the osmotic laxatives drug class. It is typically used for short-term treatment but can also be used long-term to treat chronic constipation. It is also used for colonoscopy bowel preparation.

Miralax works by drawing water into the colon, which softens the stool and may naturally stimulate the colon to contract. This helps to ease bowel movements. It does not stimulate the colon forcefully like stimulant laxatives, which may also cause harsh side effects like cramping or sudden urgency.

Miralax is the #1 doctor-recommended choice for laxatives. It is proven safe and effective, providing complete, comfortable, and predictable relief, with both stool-softening and laxative effects. It does not cause harsh side effects such as gas, bloating, cramping, or sudden urgency.

The typical dose of Miralax for adults and children aged 17 and older is 17 grams mixed in 4 to 8 ounces of a beverage and taken by mouth once a day. It is important to follow the directions on the product package or as directed by a doctor. It may take up to a few days after starting this medication to have a bowel movement.

It treats constipation

Miralax is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder that treats constipation. It is also known by its generic name, polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). It is an osmotic laxative, which means it works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and increasing the number of bowel movements.

Osmotic laxatives like Miralax attract water and keep it in the colon, allowing them to hydrate and soften stools, unblocking the system without causing harsh side effects. In contrast, stimulant laxatives make the body go by forcefully stimulating the nerves in the colon, and they may cause harsh side effects like cramping or sudden urgency.

Miralax 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. It is available without a prescription, but it is important to read the manufacturer's package instructions carefully and consult a doctor or pharmacist if needed.

The typical dosage of Miralax for adults is 17 grams, mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of water or another beverage, and consumed once daily. It usually takes 1 to 3 days for Miralax to work, and it is recommended to take it once a day for up to a week. If it hasn't worked after a week, it is advised to contact a healthcare provider as there could be something more serious going on, like a blockage in the intestines.

Miralax is generally well-tolerated, and many people using this medication do not experience serious side effects. However, some common side effects may include nausea, abdominal cramping, or gas. More serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include severe diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and signs of an allergic reaction such as a rash, hives, or itching.

It is available over the counter

MiraLAX is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, meaning it is available without a prescription. It is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder used to treat constipation. It is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for certain purposes.

MiraLAX is a nonstimulant laxative that works with the water in your body to provide gentle, effective relief from occasional constipation without harsh side effects. It is the number one doctor-recommended choice, proven safe and effective, and available over the counter. It provides complete, comfortable, and predictable relief, with both stool-softening and laxative effects. It does not cause harsh side effects such as gas, bloating, cramping, or sudden urgency.

MiraLAX is available in bottles or single-serve packets and is mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of water, juice, or other liquids. It is typically used for short-term treatment but can be used long-term in some cases to treat chronic constipation. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the MiraLAX packaging exactly. If you have questions or concerns about how to take MiraLAX, consult your pharmacist or doctor.

MiraLAX is designed to be taken once per day for up to 7 days or until you experience relief. If you still need a laxative after 7 days, stop using MiraLAX and consult your doctor. It is important to note that people under the age of 16 should not use MiraLAX without first talking to a doctor.

MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative, which means it draws water into the colon, keeping it there to hydrate and soften stools. This helps to unblock your system without causing sudden urgency. While results may vary, MiraLAX generally produces a bowel movement in 1 to 3 days.

It is safe for children

Miralax is a nonstimulant, osmotic laxative that is generally considered safe for children. It is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder that treats constipation. The active ingredient in Miralax is polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350), which works by pulling water into the colon, thereby helping to bulk up and soften the stool. This makes it easier for the stool to pass through the body.

While Miralax is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adults aged 17 and older, it is not technically approved for children under 17. However, many doctors believe that Miralax is safe for children as young as six months and prescribe it through a method called off-labeling. Off-labeling refers to when a doctor prescribes a drug that is not approved for the patient's age or the condition being treated.

The North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) supports the use of Miralax in children. It is often one of the first treatments recommended for children aged 16 and younger because it is well-tolerated, easy to use, and doesn't taste bad. Additionally, there are currently no OTC or prescription products that are FDA-approved to treat constipation in children.

Miralax is considered safe and effective in treating constipation in children, but some adverse side effects have been reported. These include common abdominal-related side effects such as nausea, abdominal cramping, and gas. More seriously, some parents have reported behavioural changes in their children, including anxiety, mood swings, behavioural issues, and paranoia. However, it is important to note that there is currently no evidence that these side effects are caused by Miralax. The FDA has stated that the labelling for PEG 3350 accurately conveys its risks, and no additional warnings about neuropsychiatric issues in children are needed.

In summary, while Miralax is not FDA-approved for children under 17, it has been used off-label for years and is generally considered safe and effective by healthcare providers. However, recent reports of potential side effects have raised concerns, and more research is needed to determine the benefits and risks of using Miralax in children.

It can be mixed with water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea

MiraLAX is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder used to treat constipation. It is also available in single-serve packets. The powder is mixed with 4 to 8 ounces (120-240 milliliters) of liquid, such as water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. It is important to stir the powder well until it completely dissolves before consumption. The liquid can be cold, hot, or room temperature. It is recommended to use the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative, which means it works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and may naturally stimulate the colon to contract. This helps ease bowel movements. It is different from stimulant laxatives, which can cause harsh side effects like cramping or sudden urgency.

MiraLAX is generally well-tolerated, and you can take it with or without food. It usually causes a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of taking it. It is important not to take more than the recommended dosage and to consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

Frequently asked questions