If you’re one of the 16% of American adults who suffer from constipation, then you might have heard of polyethylene glycol. You might be asking what it is and how it works. If so, then this article is for you.
Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about polyethylene glycol.
What Is Polyethylene Glycol?
Polyethylene glycol is made from ethylene glycol, which believe it or not is the main ingredient in antifreeze! However, it also has several uses other than getting you to work on a winter’s morning.
It’s quite commonly used in skin creams and personal lubricants, but its most common use is to treat constipation. It belongs to a class of medications known as osmotic laxatives. Polyethylene glycol is available as a powder and can be obtained without a prescription
There has been some concern that ingesting something that is also found in anti-freeze could be detrimental, but doctors have stressed that this compound is found in many other products that we ingest and there are no negative health implications.
Polyethylene glycol can be purchased from your nearest pharmacy or from a trustable online retailer such as https://www.umbrellachemical.us.
How Does it Work?
Polyethylene glycol, or PEG 3350, works by causing more water to be retained in your stools. This helps to soften stools, which makes them easier to pass. By increasing the amount of water in the intestinal tract it also increases the number of bowel movements.
How to Take PEG 3350 Powder
PEG 3350 powder either comes in individual sachets or a bulk bottle and is commonly sold as MiraLAX. If you’re using the sachets, then just mix the contents as directed by your pharmacist or doctor.
If you’re using the bottle, then there will be a cap to measure out the correct dose. Mix this with 4-8 ounces of liquid. Before drinking the solution make sure that all of the powder has dissolved.
PEG 3350 doesn’t necessarily work immediately and it can take between 2 to 4 days to have a bowel movement. It’s important not to increase the dosage or frequency of the dosage during this time. If your condition persists for more than 7 days, then it’s important to see your doctor.
Polyethylene Glycol Side Effects
If your doctor has prescribed you MiraLAX then they have decided that the potential side-effects outweigh the risks of not taking it. Those most common side effects are nausea, abdominal cramping, and gas. If any of these side effects persist or worsen then it’s important to stop using MiraLax and speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Severe and rare side effects include:
- An excessive number of bowel movements
- Persistent diarrhea
- Severe or persistent stomach/abdominal pain
- Bloody stools
- Rectal bleeding
If you experience any of these symptoms, then you must stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately. Allergic reactions to polyethylene glycol are rare, but you should seek immediate medical advice if you notice any signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Put an End to Constipation
If you’re suffering from the symptoms of constipation, then polyethylene glycol could be the remedy you’ve been waiting for. It is available over the counter, but it’s worth speaking with a health adviser first just to rule anything more serious such as a bowel obstruction. Polyethylene glycol can make more severe intestinal problems such as this worse.
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