| drug name | Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) |
| classification | Osmotic laxative |
| pharmacokinetics | PEG 3350 is not absorbed systemically. It draws water into the colon through osmosis, increasing stool volume and softening it. It is excreted unchanged in the feces. |
| suggested dosage | The recommended dosage for PEG 3350 varies depending on the specific use and patient needs. *For bowel preparation before medical procedures:* Common regimens involve a single dose of 1-2 liters of PEG 3350 solution over 2-4 hours. *For chronic constipation:* Usually administered as a daily or twice-daily dose ranging from 17 to 30 grams (in 1-2 liters of water) per day. Consult with a healthcare professional for the most appropriate dose based on the individual patient's needs. It is crucial to follow the specific instructions provided with the product or prescribed by a medical professional. |
| indications | | 1 | Bowel preparation before certain medical procedures (e.g., colonoscopy, surgery) | | 2 | Treatment of chronic constipation | | 3 | Relief of occasional constipation |
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| safety in pregnancy | Limited data on use in pregnancy. PEG 3350 is generally considered safe in pregnancy for bowel preparation if indicated by a healthcare professional. It does not cross the placenta, and the small amount absorbed is not thought to cause harm to the fetus. However, always consult a doctor regarding use during pregnancy. |
| safety in breastfeeding | PEG 3350 is considered safe for use during breastfeeding. The small amount absorbed is not expected to be passed into breast milk in significant amounts. However, always consult a doctor regarding use while breastfeeding. |
| side effects | | 1 | Nausea | | 2 | Abdominal cramps | | 3 | Bloating | | 4 | Diarrhea | | 5 | Dehydration (if large volumes are used too quickly) | | 6 | Electrolyte imbalance (rare) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to polyethylene glycol | | 2 | Severe dehydration | | 3 | Intestinal obstruction | | 4 | Severe electrolyte imbalance |
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| interactions | | 1 | May interact with certain medications affecting electrolytes. Consult a doctor if you are taking other medications. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Drink plenty of fluids with PEG 3350 to prevent dehydration, especially during bowel preparation. | | 2 | Do not use PEG 3350 if you have any known bowel problems such as intestinal obstruction. | | 3 | Be cautious in patients with underlying kidney disease as PEG 3350 may impact kidney function. | | 4 | Monitor for signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, particularly in prolonged use. | | 5 | If symptoms worsen or persist, contact a healthcare professional. |
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| additional information | | 1 | PEG 3350 is usually administered as a clear liquid solution. | | 2 | Always follow the instructions from your healthcare professional or the product information leaflet carefully. | | 3 | Patient age and weight are not primary factors in determining initial PEG 3350 dosage. Dosage adjustments, if needed, are based on clinical response and patient needs. | | 4 | This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment. |
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| patient profile | |
