Gavilax Powder 510gm
It is used to treat constipation.
Drug Class
Laxative
Pharmacologic Class
Osmotic Laxative
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Feb 1999
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is a type of laxative that works by drawing water into your intestines. This helps to soften your stool and make it easier to pass, relieving constipation. It is not absorbed into your body.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To take this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. When preparing your dose, mix the powder with 1/2 to 1 cup (120 to 240 ml) of a liquid, such as water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. Stir well to ensure the powder is fully dissolved before drinking. It's essential to check that there are no clumps in the mixture before consumption. Do not mix the powder with starch-based thickeners. Use only the dosing cap that comes with the powder to measure your dose accurately.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you're unsure about the best way to dispose of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also have access to drug take-back programs in your area.
Managing Missed Doses
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking two doses at the same time or taking extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
To take this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. When preparing your dose, mix the powder with 1/2 to 1 cup (120 to 240 ml) of a liquid, such as water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. Stir well to ensure the powder is fully dissolved before drinking. It's essential to check that there are no clumps in the mixture before consumption. Do not mix the powder with starch-based thickeners. Use only the dosing cap that comes with the powder to measure your dose accurately.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you're unsure about the best way to dispose of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also have access to drug take-back programs in your area.
Managing Missed Doses
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking two doses at the same time or taking extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Drink plenty of fluids (at least 6-8 glasses of water daily) while taking this medication.
- Increase dietary fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) unless medically contraindicated.
- Engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel regularity.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
17 g (one heaping tablespoon) of powder dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of water or other beverage once daily
Dose Range:
17 - 34 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
chronic_constipation:
17 g once daily; may be increased to 34 g daily if needed for chronic constipation, but typically not exceeding 7 days without medical advice.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established for routine use; off-label dosing varies (e.g., 0.2-0.8 g/kg/day)
Child:
Off-label: 0.2-0.8 g/kg/day, typically 0.4 g/kg/day, dissolved in 4-8 oz of liquid. Max 17 g/day for children 6 years and older. For children 2-6 years, typical dose is 8.5 g once daily.
Adolescent:
17 g (one heaping tablespoon) of powder dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of water or other beverage once daily.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed; not significantly dialyzable due to minimal absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is an osmotic agent that causes water to be retained with the stool. It works by drawing water into the colon, which softens the stool and increases stool bulk, thereby stimulating bowel movements. It is a non-absorbable, inert polymer.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
< 0.2%
Tmax:
Not applicable (minimal absorption)
FoodEffect:
None significant
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Fecal (unchanged)
Unchanged:
> 99%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
24 to 72 hours (1 to 3 days)
PeakEffect:
Not distinctly defined, continuous effect with daily dosing
DurationOfAction:
Maintains effect as long as therapy continues
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever)
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Severe dizziness or fainting
Diarrhea
Rectal bleeding or rectal pain
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
Loose, watery, or more frequent stools
Stomach pain or cramps
Gas
Bloating
* Upset stomach
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever)
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Severe dizziness or fainting
Diarrhea
Rectal bleeding or rectal pain
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
Loose, watery, or more frequent stools
Stomach pain or cramps
Gas
Bloating
* Upset stomach
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Bloating that worsens
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rectal bleeding
- No bowel movement after 7 days of use
- Signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bowel obstruction
+ Abdominal pain
+ Upset stomach
+ Rectal bleeding
+ Vomiting
+ Changes in bowel habits that last longer than 2 weeks
A diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome
Kidney disease
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your health problems and medications with your doctor.
To ensure safe treatment, tell your doctor and pharmacist about:
All prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
* Your complete medical history
Before making any changes to your medication regimen, including starting, stopping, or adjusting the dose of any medication, consult with your doctor to confirm it is safe to do so.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bowel obstruction
+ Abdominal pain
+ Upset stomach
+ Rectal bleeding
+ Vomiting
+ Changes in bowel habits that last longer than 2 weeks
A diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome
Kidney disease
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your health problems and medications with your doctor.
To ensure safe treatment, tell your doctor and pharmacist about:
All prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
* Your complete medical history
Before making any changes to your medication regimen, including starting, stopping, or adjusting the dose of any medication, consult with your doctor to confirm it is safe to do so.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. To avoid potential complications, do not use this drug for more than 7 days without explicit instructions from your doctor. Additionally, refrain from using other laxatives or stool softeners unless your doctor advises you to do so. Please note that it may take several days to experience the full effects of this medication. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are currently breast-feeding, it is crucial to discuss your situation with your doctor to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Severe diarrhea
- Excessive fluid loss
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium, low sodium)
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea
- Vomiting
What to Do:
Discontinue use. Provide supportive care, including fluid and electrolyte replacement as needed. In case of severe symptoms or suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control).
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Bowel habits and history of constipation
Rationale: To establish baseline and assess need for therapy.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Bowel movements (frequency, consistency)
Frequency: Daily
Target: Regular, soft, formed stools
Action Threshold: If no bowel movement after 7 days of use, or if severe abdominal pain/bloating occurs, discontinue and consult physician.
Electrolytes (Na, K, Cl, HCO3)
Frequency: Periodically, if used long-term or in patients with renal/cardiac impairment, or if symptoms of electrolyte imbalance occur.
Target: Within normal limits
Action Threshold: Abnormal values or symptoms (e.g., muscle weakness, dizziness, irregular heartbeat) require medical evaluation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Dizziness
- Muscle weakness
- Signs of dehydration
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered low risk for short-term use during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption. However, it is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk, but use only if clearly needed.
Second Trimester:
Low risk, but use only if clearly needed.
Third Trimester:
Low risk, but use only if clearly needed.
Lactation
Considered compatible with breastfeeding (L2 - Likely Compatible). Minimal systemic absorption by the mother means negligible amounts are expected to pass into breast milk, posing little to no risk to the nursing infant.
Infant Risk:
Low risk
Pediatric Use
Commonly used off-label for chronic constipation in children under 17 years. Dosing should be carefully determined by a healthcare professional based on weight and age. Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Long-term use should be monitored by a physician.
Geriatric Use
Generally safe and effective in elderly patients. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, especially with excessive use or pre-existing conditions. Monitor for signs of dehydration or electrolyte disturbances.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- PEG 3350 is generally preferred over stimulant laxatives for chronic constipation due to its gentle action and lower risk of tolerance or dependence.
- It is important to dissolve the powder completely in the recommended amount of liquid to ensure proper efficacy and palatability.
- Onset of action is typically 1-3 days, so patients should be advised not to expect immediate relief.
- Adequate hydration is crucial for the effectiveness of osmotic laxatives and to prevent dehydration.
- While generally safe for long-term use, chronic constipation should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Alternative Therapies
- Fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium, methylcellulose)
- Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
- Other osmotic laxatives (e.g., lactulose, magnesium hydroxide)
- Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl, senna) - generally for short-term use
- Chloride channel activators (e.g., lubiprostone)
- Guanylate cyclase-C agonists (e.g., linaclotide, plecanatide)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$15 - $40 per 510g container
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Often available OTC; prescription versions may be covered by insurance (Tier 1 or 2) depending on plan and indication.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.