PEG 3350 Powder 119gm
It is used to treat constipation.
Drug Class
Laxative
Pharmacologic Class
Osmotic Laxative
Pregnancy Category
C
FDA Approved
Feb 1999
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
PEG 3350 is a laxative that helps relieve occasional constipation. It works by drawing water into your stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It's not for immediate relief and may take 1 to 3 days to work.
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 storage in a bathroom. 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 want to check if there are drug take-back programs available in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take 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 storage in a bathroom. 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 want to check if there are drug take-back programs available in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take 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 throughout the day to help the medication work effectively and prevent dehydration.
- Increase dietary fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) unless advised otherwise by a doctor.
- Engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel regularity.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
17 grams (one heaping tablespoon) of powder dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of water or other beverage once daily
Dose Range:
17 - 17 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
chronic_constipation:
17 grams once daily for up to 7 days. For longer use, consult a healthcare professional.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (off-label use common, but specific dosing varies and requires medical supervision)
Infant:
Not established (off-label use common, but specific dosing varies and requires medical supervision)
Child:
Not established (off-label use common, typically 0.2-0.8 g/kg/day, but specific dosing varies and requires medical supervision). FDA approved for 17 years and older.
Adolescent:
17 years and older: 17 grams once daily. For younger adolescents (12-16 years), off-label use is common, typically 17 grams once daily, but consult a healthcare professional.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment required
Moderate:
No adjustment required
Severe:
No adjustment required (minimal systemic absorption)
Dialysis:
No adjustment required (minimal systemic absorption)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment required
Moderate:
No adjustment required
Severe:
No adjustment required
Confidence:
High
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is an osmotic agent. It works by causing water to be retained within the stool, which increases the water content and softens the stool. This leads to an increase in stool bulk and frequency of bowel movements.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
<0.2%
Tmax:
Not clinically relevant (minimally absorbed)
FoodEffect:
Not significant
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (minimally absorbed, excreted largely unchanged)
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimally absorbed)
ExcretionRoute:
Fecal (primarily unchanged)
Unchanged:
>99%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
1 to 3 days
PeakEffect:
Not applicable (gradual effect)
DurationOfAction:
Variable, depends on continued use and individual response
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 mild ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance:
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 not mentioned here. 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 mild ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance:
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 not mentioned here. 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, cramping, or bloating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rectal bleeding
- Allergic reaction (e.g., rash, hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing)
- Diarrhea that is severe or persistent
- No bowel movement after 7 days of use (for occasional constipation)
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 or blockage
+ Abdominal pain
+ Upset stomach
+ Rectal bleeding
+ Vomiting
+ Changes in bowel habits that last longer than 2 weeks
+ 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
Natural products and vitamins you are using
* Any health problems you have
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 or blockage
+ Abdominal pain
+ Upset stomach
+ Rectal bleeding
+ Vomiting
+ Changes in bowel habits that last longer than 2 weeks
+ 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
Natural products and vitamins you are using
* Any health problems you have
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. You may not experience the full effects of this medication immediately, as it may take a few days to become fully effective. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are currently breast-feeding, it is crucial to discuss your situation with your doctor, as you will need 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. Rehydrate with fluids and electrolytes. Seek immediate medical attention. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control).
Drug Interactions
Minor Interactions
- Oral medications (potential for decreased absorption if taken concurrently, though generally not clinically significant due to PEG's minimal systemic absorption and short transit time)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Bowel habits and history of constipation
Rationale: To establish baseline and assess need for treatment
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Frequency and consistency of bowel movements
Frequency: Daily
Target: Regular, soft, formed stools
Action Threshold: No bowel movement after 3 days, or persistent diarrhea/abdominal discomfort
Abdominal discomfort/bloating
Frequency: Daily
Target: Minimal to none
Action Threshold: Severe or worsening abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
Electrolyte levels (e.g., sodium, potassium) - *only for prolonged use or in patients with pre-existing electrolyte imbalances or renal impairment*
Frequency: Periodically, as clinically indicated
Target: Within normal limits
Action Threshold: Significant deviations from normal range
Symptom Monitoring
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Considered low risk due to minimal systemic absorption. Use only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk, minimal systemic absorption.
Second Trimester:
Low risk, minimal systemic absorption.
Third Trimester:
Low risk, minimal systemic absorption.
Lactation
Considered compatible with breastfeeding due to minimal systemic absorption by the mother, making infant exposure unlikely.
Infant Risk:
Low risk
Pediatric Use
Often used off-label for chronic constipation in children under 17 years, but specific dosing should be determined by a healthcare professional. For children 17 years and older, the adult dose is typically used. Ensure adequate hydration.
Geriatric Use
Generally safe and well-tolerated in elderly patients. Start with the recommended adult dose. Monitor for signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, especially if other medical conditions or medications are present.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- PEG 3350 is an osmotic laxative, not a stimulant. It works by drawing water into the colon to soften stool, so it may take 1-3 days to produce a bowel movement.
- It is generally well-tolerated and does not cause dependence like some stimulant laxatives.
- Mix the powder completely in 4 to 8 ounces of water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. It is tasteless and dissolves easily.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake throughout the day to maximize effectiveness and prevent dehydration.
- Not intended for immediate relief of acute constipation or for use in patients with suspected bowel obstruction.
Alternative Therapies
- Other osmotic laxatives (e.g., lactulose, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium citrate)
- Bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., psyllium, methylcellulose)
- Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
- 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:
Varies, typically $15-$30 per 119gm bottle
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (often covered by most plans, especially generics)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe and effective treatment, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.