MiraLAX Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Generic name: polyethylene glycol 3350 [ pol-ee-ETH-il-een-GLYE-kol ]
Drug class: Laxatives

Medically reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD. Last updated on Jun 5, 2023.

What is MiraLAX?

MiraLAX is a laxative solution that increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements.

MiraLAX is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements.

MiraLAX may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about MiraLAX

You should not use MiraLAX if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from MiraLAX.

People with eating disorders (such as anorexia or bulimia) should not use MiraLAX without the advice of a doctor.

Before taking MiraLAX, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, kidney disease, nausea or vomiting with severe stomach pain, or if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted 2 weeks or longer.

MiraLAX should produce a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of using the medication. Polyethylene glycol 3350 normally causes loose or even watery stools.

Do not use MiraLAX more than once per day. Call your doctor if you are still constipated or irregular after using this medication for 7 days in a row.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use MiraLAX if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol, or if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from polyethylene glycol 3350.

People with eating disorders (such as anorexia or bulimia) should not use this medication without the advice of a doctor.

To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain;

• ulcerative colitis;

• irritable bowel syndrome;

• kidney disease; or

• if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted 2 weeks or longer.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether MiraLAX will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether polyethylene glycol 3350 passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take MiraLAX?

Use MiraLAX exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

To use MiraLAX powder, measure your dose with the medicine cap on the bottle. This cap should contain dose marks on the inside of it. Pour the powder into 4 to 8 ounces of a cold or hot beverage such as water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. Stir this mixture and drink it right away. Do not save for later use.

MiraLAX should produce a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of using the medication. Polyethylene glycol 3350 normally causes loose or even watery stools.

Do not use MiraLAX more than once per day. Call your doctor if you are still constipated or irregular after using this medication for 7 days in a row.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose of MiraLAX for Constipation:

17 g (diluted in 8 fluid ounces water, juice, soda or coffee) orally once a day

Usual Pediatric Dose for Bowel Preparation:

Occasional constipation:
Children greater than 6 months of age: 0.5 to 1.5 g/kg daily (initial dose 0.5 g/kg; titrate to effect)
Maximum dose: 17 g/day

Fecal impaction:
Children greater than 3 years of age: 1 to 1.5 g/kg daily for 3 days
Maximum dose: 100 g daily

Bowel preparation:
Children greater than 2 years of age: 1.5 g/kg/day
Maximum dose: 100 g daily

Usual Pediatric Dose of MiraLAX for Constipation — Acute:

Occasional constipation:
Children greater than 6 months of age: 0.5 to 1. 5 g/kg daily (initial dose 0.5 g/kg; titrate to effect)
Maximum dose: 17 g/day

Fecal impaction:
Children greater than 3 years of age: 1 to 1.5 g/kg daily for 3 days
Maximum dose: 100 g daily

Bowel preparation:
Children greater than 2 years of age: 1.5 g/kg/day
Maximum dose: 100 g daily

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid?

Follow your doctor’s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

MiraLAX side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to MiraLAX: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe or bloody diarrhea;

• rectal bleeding;

• blood in your stools; or

• severe and worsening stomach pain.

Common MiraLAX side effects may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect MiraLAX?

Other drugs may interact with MiraLAX, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Popular FAQ

Metamucil and MiraLAX are both brand names for over-the-counter laxatives. This means they help you move feces through your bowels. Metamucil is used to help you have regular bowel movements if you have occasional constipation and you can use it every day. MiraLAX is used to treat occasional constipation. It contains a substance called polyethylene glycol. You should not use it for more than 7 days. Continue reading

For relief of constipation, you can take one dose of MiraLAX at any time of the day for up to 7 days. You may prefer to take it early in the day so that it’s less likely you will have a bowel movement during bedtime or late at night. MiraLAX usually produces a bowel movement in 1 to 3 days. Continue reading

Any drug that is classified as an “opioid” can cause constipation. Examples of commonly prescribed opioids that may cause this side effect include morphine, tramadol, fentanyl, methadone, hydrocodone, codeine and oxycodone. Continue reading

More FAQ

• MiraLax – what is the dosage in teaspoons or tablespoons?

View more FAQ

More about MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol 3350)

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Patient resources

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Other brands

GlycoLax, GaviLAX

Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Related treatment guides

• Constipation, Acute
• Bowel Preparation
• Constipation

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use MiraLAX only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 2.04.

Constipation: Frequently Asked Questions | Michigan Medicine

Q. What is a normal consistency for a bowel movement?

Bowel movements should be soft and formed. They should pass easily like toothpaste flowing out of a tube. 

Q. How often should I move my bowels?

The standard time frame for normal bowel movement (BM) frequency ranges from as many as three bowel movements per day to as few as three bowel movements per week. This is a wide range. Our program usually gives patients suffering from constipation a rescue drug to use if no bowel movement has occurred in 3 days’ time. The colon draws water from stool, the longer stool sits in the colon, the harder the stool becomes. What is more important is whether you are comfortable with your bowel movement frequency or whether there has been a significant change from your typical bowel movement frequency.  

Q. What self help things can I do if I suffer from constipation?

Body position can help you to move your bowels. While sitting on the toilet, placing your feet on a small step stool can position the rectum at an angle which makes it easier to pass stool. Bowels like a routine, so eating the same amounts around the same time of day helps to regulate the bowels. Bowels also like regular exercise to keep them moving. Eat a fiber rich diet (refer to our high fiber diet teaching sheet on the web site). Plenty of decaffeinated fluid (if you are not on fluid restrictions) also helps to keep bowel movements soft.

Q. How much fiber should be in my diet? How much should I add at a time?

Most Americans eat only 12 grams of fiber a day. The recommended amount is between 25-35 grams of fiber a day. To find out how much fiber you are eating, read the nutrition label of your foods and add the grams of fiber together. When you add fiber to your diet, you will initially be gassy. This gas will decrease over time. For this reason we recommend adding only 5-6 grams of fiber to your diet every two weeks. 

Q. Is there a difference whether I eat fiber or use a supplement?

No there is no difference whether you eat fiber or take a supplement. Some patients feel that the supplement makes them have less gas. 

Q. My doctor told me to try fiber but my symptoms are worse. How can this be?

There are different types of constipation. Not all types of constipation are best treated with additional dietary fiber. For instance, our program has found that people with dysynergic defecation or slow transit constipation may experience worsening symptoms with increased dietary fiber.

Q. Does Activia yogurt help constipation like they say on the commercial?

Activia can improve mild constipation. Studies have shown an initial improvement in 2 weeks. Most patients eat 2 Activia a day to receive the best benefit.

Q. Do stool softeners really help?

Medications for the colon are specific to the person. Stool softeners are safe and relatively inexpensive, but work only for people with very mild constipation.

Q. Will the chronic use of laxatives hurt me or become addicting?

No, this is a myth. Some people will need to take something to move their bowels. Just like someone who needs to take medication for their stomach or for their heart.

Q. What is the difference between osmotic laxatives and stimulant laxatives?

Osmotic laxatives, such as Miralax or magnesium, are poorly absorbed substances that remain in the bowels and as a result pull water into the colon to make stools soft. Stimulant laxatives, such as Dulcolax and Senna, stimulate the muscles of the colon to squeeze or contract. As a result of this increased squeezing, the stool is pushed through the colon. The increase in muscle squeezing is why stimulant laxatives may cause abdominal cramping.

Q. What does the Michigan Bowel Control Program (MBCP) do that is different from other programs?

The MBCP is a multidisciplinary program designed for patients suffering from bowel disorders, meaning that doctors from different specialties see patients together to set a plan of care that is personalized to the individual patient. We coordinate appointments so patients are coming to us infrequently. We have nurse coordinators that help the patient from the moment they schedule their appointment until the patient is successful. We perform appropriate and timely testing.

Q. Are our physicians board certified?

Our Urogynecologists and Gastroenterologists are board certified.

Q. Do you have a support group?

The Michigan Bowel Control Program has an electronic communication board for patients enrolled in the program. You must sign a consent form giving us your e-mail address for this purpose.

Q. Are there different types of constipation?

There are four types of constipation:

• Diet and Medication Controlled Constipation: The colon moves stool along within 24 -72 hours. The muscles of the pelvic floor move properly. Usually, most people respond to fiber or laxative treatment.
• Dysynergic Constipation:The muscles of the pelvic floor do not work properly and may even perform the opposite function of what they are supposed to do. Sometimes muscles are in spasm. Patients usually complain of not being able to fully empty or having to use their fingers to pass stool. Dysynergic constipation may be coupled with an outlet obstruction. An outlet obstruction is where a structure such as a rectocele or enterocele is in the way of stool coming out.
• Slow Transit Constipation: The colon moves slowly, as a result, bowels move very infrequently sometimes only once every 2-3 weeks.
• Combined dysynergic and slow transit constipation.

Q. What testing is appropriate to evaluate constipation?

There are a variety of tests for constipation offered at the University of Michigan Medical Procedures Unit. Testing may include a colonoscopy, anal-rectal manometrics, the Smart pill wireless motility capsule or defecography. These are specialized tests that evaluate the colon for any structural problems or problems with muscle function that may be contributing to constipation.

Q. How can physical therapy help constipation?

If the muscles of the pelvic floor are not working properly, then physical therapy (PT) will help to retrain those muscles. We are not used to having to think about muscles of the pelvic floor. PT assists you in connecting the mind and body to enable these muscles to work properly when having a bowel movement. PT can also help with strengthening muscles and to decrease spasm.

Q. Are there surgeries that can resolve my constipation?

Surgery is always a last resort. Most constipation can be resolved with diet, lifestyle changes and laxative therapy. Surgery is recommended if you have a slow moving colon that has failed all medical treatments or if you have a structure blocking the way that is causing your constipation. Structures blocking the way of stool moving through the anal canal can also be lifted by strengthening the pelvic floor through physical therapy.

Make an Appointment

To schedule an appointment to discuss chronic constipation or any other gastrointestinal problem, call us at 877-462-6935.

what remedy to choose for constipation?

Contents

Constipation is a common problem that can affect people of any age and gender. It can be caused by various factors such as poor diet, stress, lack of physical activity, bowel disease, and others. Constipation not only causes discomfort and pain, but can also lead to serious complications, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, intoxication of the body, and even intestinal cancer.

Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor in a timely manner when symptoms of constipation appear and take the necessary measures to eliminate it. One way to treat constipation is to use laxatives, which help stimulate bowel movement and make it easier to pass stool. There are many different laxative drugs that differ in composition, mechanism of action, form of release, indications and contraindications.

In this article, we will compare two popular microclysters for constipation: Modelax and Microlax. We will find out what their difference is, advantages and disadvantages, as well as how to apply them correctly.

What is Modelax and Microlax?

Modelax and Microlax are microclysters for rectal use for constipation. They are disposable tubes with liquid that is injected into the rectum through a thin tip. The liquid softens the feces and promotes their excretion from the body.

Modelax is a domestic drug produced by Pharmstandard-Leksredstva LLC. Its active ingredients are glycerin (6 g) and sodium laureth sulfate (0.45 g) in 10 ml of liquid. Glycerin has an osmotic effect, that is, it attracts water to the intestines and increases the volume of feces. Sodium laureth sulfate reduces the surface tension of the liquid and promotes its penetration into the feces, softening them. Modelax acts 15-30 minutes after administration.

Microlax is an imported drug produced by Famar Orleans (France). Its active ingredients are sodium citrate (90 mg), sodium lauryl sulfoacetate (9 mg) and sorbitol (625 mg) in 5 ml liquid. Sodium citrate displaces water from the feces, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate facilitates their destruction, and sorbitol increases the volume of fluid in the intestine. Microlax acts 5-15 minutes after administration.

Effects on the body

Modelax and Microlax act by a different mechanism. Modelax has a combined effect: glycerin penetrates the feces and increases their volume due to the attraction of water, and sodium laureth sulfate destroys the surface layer of feces and facilitates its exit. Microlax also acts as a lubricant: its components (sorbitol, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate and sodium citrate) lower the surface tension of the fluid in the intestine and facilitate its penetration into the feces, making them softer and slippery.

Both drugs begin to act quickly: Modelax – 5-20 minutes after administration, Microlax – 5-15 minutes. They are not absorbed into the blood and do not have a systemic effect on the body. They also do not disturb the natural intestinal microflora and do not cause addiction with long-term use.

When to use

Modelax and Microlax are used for constipation of various origins: functional, atonic, spastic, postoperative, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, pregnancy and lactation. They may also be used to prepare for a rectal exam or surgery.

Modelax has a wider range of indications: it can be used for constipation in children from 3 years old, as well as for chronic constipation in adults. Microlax is recommended only for the symptomatic treatment of acute constipation in adults and children from 3 months.

Instructions for use

Modelax and Microlax are microclysters – disposable tubes of liquid for injection into the rectum through the anus. Wash hands and anal area before use. Then you need to remove the protective cap from the tube and squeeze it slightly to release some liquid and lubricate the tip. After that, you need to insert the tip of the tube into the anus to the full length and squeeze the contents of the tube into the rectum. Then you need to remove the tube and throw it away.

The dosage of Modelax and Microlax depends on the age of the patient. For children from 3 months to 3 years, it is recommended to use half the dose (2.5 ml) of Microlax or a quarter of the dose (1.25 ml) of Modelax-N. For children over 3 years of age and adults, it is recommended to use the full dose (5 ml) of Microlax or half the dose (2.5 ml) of Modelax-N. For adults with chronic constipation, a full dose (5 ml) of Modelax-N can be used.

Contraindications and side effects

Modelax and Microlax have almost the same contraindications and side effects. They are not recommended in the presence of an allergy to any of the components of the drug, in acute inflammatory or infectious bowel disease, in violation of the integrity of the rectal mucosa, in paralytic or mechanical intestinal obstruction, in case of appendicitis or suspicion of it, in pregnancy and lactation.

Side effects from the use of Modelax and Microlax may include irritation of the rectal mucosa, burning or itching in the anal area, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions. In most cases, these side effects go away on their own and do not require discontinuation of the drug. However, if serious or prolonged side effects occur, you should consult a doctor.

Modelax and Microlax should not be used frequently or for a long time without a doctor’s prescription, as this can lead to disruption of the natural intestinal motility, dysbacteriosis, loss of electrolytes and fluid. To prevent constipation, it is better to use other methods, such as regular fiber intake, sufficient water intake, physical activity and daily routine.

Which drug to choose

Modelax and Microlax have a similar composition and mechanism of action. They both contain sorbitol and sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, which soften and bulk up the stool, and sodium citrate, which makes it easier to pass. However, there are some differences between these drugs.

Modelax-N has a larger tube volume (5 ml) and a higher dosage of active substances (4.45 g sorbitol, 450 mg sodium lauryl sulfoacetate and 450 mg sodium citrate) compared to Microlax (5 ml tube, 4.4 g sorbitol, 90 mg sodium lauryl sulfoacetate and 450 mg sodium citrate). This means that Modelax-N may be more effective for chronic constipation or when a complete rectal cleansing is required before medical procedures.

Microlax has a narrower and more flexible tube tip, which provides a more comfortable insertion into the rectum. In addition, Microlax has a longer shelf life (5 years) compared to Modelax-N (3 years). This may be important for those who want to have a constipation remedy on hand.

Thus, the choice between Modelax and Microlax depends on the individual needs and preferences of the patient. Both drugs are safe and effective treatments for constipation and rectal cleansing. However, it is recommended that you consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any of them.

We do not in any way say that any of the drugs compared does not work well, and we do not persuade anyone in favor of any of them. Remember that all medicines are good in their own way and each has its own contraindications. To choose any of the drugs mentioned in the article, we recommend that you consult with your doctor. Only a doctor can determine what is best for you.

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Microlax: instruction, price, analogues | rectal solution McNeil Products Limited

• Pharmacological properties
• Indications Microlax
• Application of Microlax
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Special instructions
• Interactions
• Overdose
• Storage conditions
• Diagnosis
• Recommended alternatives
• Trade names

pharmacodynamics . Microlax ^® has a chemical and mechanical effect. Sodium citrate displaces the bound water contained in the feces. Due to the crystallizing solution of sorbitol, the action of sodium citrate in displacing water is enhanced. Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is a non-toxic moisturizing agent that does not cause irritation. It facilitates the penetration of the rectal solution into the feces. This process contributes to the liquefaction of the feces and allows the patient with constipation to complete the act of defecation within a few minutes, usually 5-20 minutes. The process of displacement of bound water by chemical and mechanical means is called peptization. Increasing the amount of water due to peptization and liquefaction helps to soften the stool and facilitate bowel movements.

constipation (short-term use), as well as diseases requiring relief from defecation.

For bowel movements during diagnostic and therapeutic measures in the rectal area.

the drug is used rectally.

One dose of the drug should be applied 5-20 minutes before the desired effect.

Adults and children over 3 years of age should apply the contents of 1 micro enema tube with tip (5 ml), inserting the micro enema tip all the way.

Newborns and children under 3 years old should use the contents of 1 micro enema tube with a tip (5 ml) and insert the micro enema tip halfway (see the mark on the tip of the tube).

Application note . Break off the seal on the tip of the tube. Press lightly on the tube so that a drop of the drug lubricates the tip of the microclyster tip to improve the injection process. Insert the tip of the microclyster for the entire length (for children under 3 years old – half the length) into the rectum.

While squeezing the tube, squeeze out the contents completely. Remove the tip while continuing to squeeze the tube.

hypersensitivity to the active substances or any of the excipients that make up the preparation; intestinal obstruction; diagnosing hereditary fructose intolerance (intolerance to a certain type of sugar).

the frequency of occurrence of adverse reactions is determined as follows: very often -> 1/10; often – from> 1/100 to <1/10; infrequently - from> 1/1000 to <1/100; rarely - from> 1/10,000 to <1/1000; very rarely - <1/10,000; frequency unknown - frequency cannot be estimated from the available data.

From the immune system: the frequency is unknown – hypersensitivity reactions (eg urticaria).

From the gastrointestinal tract: the frequency is unknown – abdominal pain, slight burning in the anus, loose stools.

sorbic acid may cause mucosal irritation.

If symptoms persist for a long time, you should consult a doctor and avoid long-term use of the drug.

If the content of the tube is only partially used, the remainder of the rectal solution must be discarded.

Use during pregnancy and lactation . Studies involving pregnant women have not been conducted. Since the drug, if used in accordance with the recommendations, is likely to have only a slight systemic absorption, no adverse effects on the health of the fetus / newborn are expected when the drug is used during pregnancy and lactation.

It is not known whether sodium citrate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate and sorbitol pass into breast milk. During lactation, the use of the drug is recommended after consulting a doctor and assessing the risk / benefit for the child.