Polyethylene glycol

Polyethylene glycol is a synthetic polyglycol having an average molecular weight of 3350. It is an osmotic agent and acts as an osmotic laxative. It is presented as a white powder for solution.

Mode of action: As an osmotic agent, polyethylene glycol causes water to be retained with the stool. It appears to have no effect on the active absorption or secretion of glucose or electrolytes.


Indication: For the treatment of constipation. Polyethylence glycol is a prescription only laxative that has been prescribed by the physician to treat constipation. This product should only be used by the person for whom it is prescribed. Polyethylene glycol solution should be used for 2 weeks or less or as directed by the physician .

Contraindication: Patients with known or suspected bowel obstruction and patients known to be allergic to polyethylene glycol.

Side effects: Nausea, abdominal bloating, cramping and flatulence may occur. High doses may produce diarrhea and excessive stool frequency, particularly in elderly patients. Patients taking other medications containing polyethylene glycol have occasionally developed urticaria suggestive of an allergic reaction.

Precautions: Patients with symptoms suggestive of bowel obstruction (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or distention) should be evaluated to rule out this condition before initiating laxative therapy.
Polyethylene glycol sbould be administered after being dissolved in water, juice, coke, coffee or tea.

Pregnancy & lactation: It is not known whether polyethylene glycol can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproductive capacity. Polyethylene glycol should only be administered to a pregnant woman if clearly needed. There is no information on the use of polyethylene glycol while nursing. Consultation with a physician is necessary in case of breastfeeding.

Dosage & admin: The usual dose of polyethylene glycol is 17gm of powder per day (or as directed by the physician) in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea (approx. 240ml). Each bottle of polyethylene glycol Is supplied with a cup that is used to measure 17gm or 8.5gm of laxative powder when filled up to the marked line. Polyethylene glycol achieves its best results when used between 1 and 2 weeks. It may be discontinued after several satisfactory bowel movements.

Drug interaction: No specific drug interactions have been demonstrated.

Market name:
AQUALAX Solution.
Incepta pharma.
Each bottle contains 85 gm of polyethylene glycol:
Powder for solution.