Polyeth Glyc 3350 Nf Powdr Pks
It is used to treat constipation.
Drug Class
Laxative
Pharmacologic Class
Osmotic Laxative
Pregnancy Category
Category C (due to lack of human studies, but minimal systemic absorption suggests low risk)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is a laxative that helps relieve occasional constipation. It works by bringing water into your stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It does not cause immediate bowel movements and may take 1 to 3 days to work.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. To prepare 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 this medication with starch-based thickeners.
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 want to inquire about drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
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 resume 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 use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. To prepare 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 this medication with starch-based thickeners.
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 want to inquire about drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
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 resume 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 to help it work effectively and prevent dehydration.
- Increase dietary fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to help maintain regular bowel movements.
- Engage in regular physical activity, which can also help promote bowel regularity.
- Do not use for more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
17 g (one packet or one heaping tablespoon) of powder dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea once daily.
Dose Range:
17 - 34 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
chronic_constipation:
17 g once daily; may take 2-4 days to produce a bowel movement. For chronic use, dosage may be adjusted based on response, typically not exceeding 34 g/day.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with caution, often off-label under medical supervision)
Infant:
Not established (use with caution, often off-label under medical supervision, typical doses range from 0.2-0.8 g/kg/day)
Child:
Not established (often used off-label for chronic constipation under medical supervision; typical doses range from 0.4-1.5 g/kg/day, usually 17g once daily for children > 6 years old, or 0.8 g/kg/day for younger children)
Adolescent:
17 g once daily (similar to adult dosing for ages 17 and older)
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed; minimal systemic 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 an inert, non-absorbable, osmotically active polymer.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Negligible (<0.2%)
Tmax:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
FoodEffect:
Minimal to no effect on absorption or efficacy
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Negligible
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily excreted unchanged in feces
Unchanged:
>99%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
1 to 3 days (may take up to 4 days)
PeakEffect:
Not applicable (gradual effect)
DurationOfAction:
As long as treatment 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 do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones, it is 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, contact your doctor for medical advice. 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 do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones, it is 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, contact your doctor for medical advice. 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
- No bowel movement after 7 days of use
- Signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., 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 or blockage
+ 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 or any other health problems that may interact with this medication
Additionally, provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of all your medications, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
Natural products
* Vitamins
This will help ensure your safety while taking this medication. Do not start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm that 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
A diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome
Kidney disease or any other health problems that may interact with this medication
Additionally, provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of all your medications, including:
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
Natural products
* Vitamins
This will help ensure your safety while taking this medication. Do not start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm that 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. Do not exceed the recommended duration of use, which is 1 week, unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so. Additionally, refrain from using other laxatives or stool softeners concurrently with this drug, unless advised by your doctor. Please note that it may take several days to experience the full therapeutic effect 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, as you will need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of using this medication to ensure the well-being of 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 concerns, contact a poison control center (Call 1-800-222-1222 in the US) or seek immediate medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Oral medications (potential for decreased absorption if taken simultaneously, though generally not clinically significant due to minimal systemic absorption of PEG)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Bowel habits and frequency
Rationale: To establish baseline and assess treatment efficacy.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Hydration status
Rationale: To ensure adequate fluid intake, especially important with osmotic laxatives.
Timing: Prior to initiation and periodically during therapy
Routine Monitoring
Frequency and consistency of bowel movements
Frequency: Daily
Target: Regular, soft, formed stools
Action Threshold: No bowel movement after 3-4 days, or persistent diarrhea/abdominal pain
Signs of dehydration (e.g., thirst, dry mouth, decreased urination)
Frequency: Daily
Target: Adequate hydration
Action Threshold: Presence of dehydration symptoms
Electrolyte levels (e.g., sodium, potassium) - particularly with prolonged or high-dose use, or in patients with renal impairment or on diuretics
Frequency: Periodically, as clinically indicated
Target: Within normal limits
Action Threshold: Abnormal electrolyte levels
Symptom Monitoring
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption. However, consult a healthcare provider before use.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk due to minimal systemic absorption.
Second Trimester:
Low risk due to minimal systemic absorption.
Third Trimester:
Low risk due to minimal systemic absorption.
Lactation
Considered compatible with breastfeeding. Minimal systemic absorption means negligible excretion into breast milk, posing no significant risk to the infant.
Infant Risk:
Low risk (L1)
Pediatric Use
Commonly used off-label for chronic constipation in children under medical supervision. Dosing should be individualized based on weight and response. Ensure adequate hydration. Not recommended for children under 6 months without medical advice.
Geriatric Use
Generally safe and well-tolerated in elderly patients. Monitor for adequate hydration and potential electrolyte imbalances, especially if co-morbidities or other medications are present. Start with the lowest effective dose.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is an osmotic laxative, not a stimulant, making it suitable for long-term use in chronic constipation without causing dependence.
- It is tasteless and dissolves easily in various liquids, making it palatable for most patients, including children.
- Patients should be advised that it does not produce an immediate bowel movement; effects typically begin within 1 to 3 days.
- Adequate fluid intake is crucial for its efficacy and to prevent dehydration.
- Not recommended for patients with known or suspected bowel obstruction.
Alternative Therapies
- Fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium, methylcellulose)
- Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
- Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl, senna - for short-term use)
- Saline laxatives (e.g., magnesium hydroxide)
- Lubricant laxatives (e.g., mineral oil)
- Prokinetics (e.g., prucalopride - for chronic idiopathic constipation)
- Guanylate cyclase-C agonists (e.g., linaclotide, plecanatide - for chronic idiopathic constipation/IBS-C)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 per 17g x 10-30 packets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Often OTC (Over-The-Counter) and may not be covered by insurance unless prescribed by a physician and deemed medically necessary. Some plans may cover generic versions.
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 emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.