| drug name | PEG 3350 (Polyethylene Glycol 3350) |
| classification | Osmotic laxative |
| pharmacokinetics | PEG 3350 is not absorbed systemically. It acts by drawing water into the bowel lumen, increasing stool volume and stimulating peristalsis. The exact time course varies depending on the dose and individual factors but typically works within 12-72 hours. It is excreted unchanged in the feces. |
| suggested dosage | | adult | The typical adult dose is 30-45g in a single dose or split into 1 or 2 doses daily. It may be taken mixed in water, juice, or other beverages. Specific dosage needs to be determined by the physician to address individual patient circumstances. | | patient specific consideration | Dosage should be adjusted based on the patient's individual needs, response, and tolerance. A healthcare professional should determine the appropriate dose and frequency of administration. |
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| indications | | 1 | Constipation | | 2 | Preparing the bowel for radiological or surgical procedures | | 3 | Evacuating the bowel for medical examination. | | 4 | Prevention of bowel impaction and its complications. |
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| safety in pregnancy | Limited data is available in pregnant women. It is generally considered to be safe, with no known direct teratogenic effects, however, its use in pregnant women should be considered only under direct medical supervision and when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. |
| safety in breastfeeding | PEG 3350 is likely to be excreted in breast milk in small amounts, but there is no conclusive evidence of harmful effects on the nursing infant. Consult a healthcare professional before use during breastfeeding. |
| side effects | | 1 | Abdominal cramping | | 2 | Bloating | | 3 | Nausea | | 4 | Vomiting | | 5 | Diarrhea | | 6 | Dehydration if not sufficiently hydrated with fluids prior to administration and concurrent with use. |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Severe dehydration | | 2 | Known hypersensitivity to PEG 3350 or other components of the preparation | | 3 | Electrolyte imbalance | | 4 | Significant underlying bowel disease or obstruction |
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| interactions | | 1 | Not known to have significant interactions with commonly prescribed medications. Avoid combining with other laxatives without consulting a physician. Potential for interaction with medications impacting electrolyte balance. | | 2 | Not known to interact with the common food items consumed by an average individual. Specific dietary advice should be followed as directed by a qualified physician. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor hydration status closely during and after administration | | 2 | Caution in patients with underlying conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome | | 3 | Not recommended for immediate relief of constipation or for use on an as-needed basis; it requires adherence to a specific course and dosage schedule. | | 4 | Do not use if you have a known bowel obstruction. This drug may worsen the situation. Consult a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment strategy. | | 5 | If symptoms worsen, discontinue use and contact a physician immediately. |
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| additional information | PEG 3350 is often used as part of a bowel preparation regimen for colonoscopy or other procedures. It is available as a powder or liquid to be mixed with water, and can be taken in one or more doses spread throughout the day. Always follow the instructions from the manufacturer and healthcare provider. |
| patient specific notes | The information provided is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. A qualified healthcare provider should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment options. This information is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. |
| patient age weight consideration | For a 25-year-old male weighing 70kg, standard dosing should be adequate, but dosage adjustments may be needed based on individual response and co-existing conditions. |
| sources | | 1 | Various medical databases and reputable pharmacologic resources. |
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