What is Macrogol / polyethylene glycol oral osmotic laxative - Meaning and definition

Published by Roberto Wenk. Reviewed by Alison Ramsey. Last updated date: January 9, 2019.

An isotonic solution containing macrogol 3350 and electrolytes with laxative activity.
Macrogol 3350-based oral osmotic laxative promotes the retention of water in the bowel, thereby increasing the water content of stool, which results in increased gastrointestinal motility and stool transit time and evacuation of colonic contents.

Macrogol 3350 is also known as polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350.

National Cancer Institute. NCI Drug Dictionary. Internet. September 15, 2009.

Published by Roberto Wenk. Reviewed by Alison Ramsey. Last updated date: January 9, 2019.

Adult
PO
Bowel evacuation - macrogol 4000 or 3350 mixed with electrolytes - solution containing about 59, 60, or 105 g/L of the macrogol: 200-300 mL repeated every 10-15 mins till the rectal effluent is clear. Max: 3-4 L.
Chronic constipation - solution containing 105 g/L of macrogol: 125 mL 1-3 times/day. Max duration: 2 wk.
Fecal impaction - solution containing 105 g/L of macrogol: 8 doses of 125 mL w/in 6 hr. Max duration: 3 days.

Adverse drug reactions: abdominal distension and pain, nausea, diarrhea, anal irritation, allergic reactions.

Adapted from CIMS Drug Information System. Internet. Accessed on January 10, 2016.

To cite

Macrogol / polyethylene glycol oral osmotic laxative. IAHPC Pallipedia. https://pallipedia.org/macrogol-polyethylene-glycol-oral-osmotic-laxative. Accessed