MiraLAX (Polyethylene Glycol 3350 - OTC) Drug Information: Warnings and Precautions

May 27, 2012

Constipation is defined medically as fewer than three stools per week and severe constipation as less than one stool per week.
Constipation usually is caused by the slow movement of stool through the colon.
There are many causes of constipation including medications, poor bowel habits, low fiber diets, abuse of laxatives, hormonal disorders, and diseases primarily of other parts of the body that also affect the colon.
The two disorders limited to the colon that cause constipation are colonic inertia and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Medical evaluation for the cause of constipation should be done when constipation is of sudden onset, severe, worsening, associated with other worrisome symptoms such as loss of weight, or is not responding to simple, safe treatments.
Medical evaluation of constipation may include a history, physical examinatio...

MiraLAX

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Allergy alert: Do not use if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol

Do not use if you have kidney disease, except under the advice and supervision of a doctor.

Ask a doctor before use if you have

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking a prescription drug.

When using this product you may have loose, watery, more frequent stools.

Stop use and ask a doctor if:

You have rectal bleeding or your nausea, bloating, cramping or abdominal pain gets worse. These may be signs of a serious condition
You get diarrhea
You need to use a laxative for longer than 1 week

If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use.

Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Last reviewed on RxList: 7/25/2007
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.