| name | Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Solutions |
| Classification | Osmotic laxative |
| Pharmacokinetics | PEG solutions are not absorbed systemically. They act by drawing water into the colon, increasing stool bulk and softening stool. The exact pharmacokinetic profile is not of significant clinical interest, as it does not involve significant systemic absorption. |
| suggested dosage | | adult | Typically administered as a single dose or divided doses depending on the indication. Doses vary significantly based on the specific preparation and indication. Consult the product information sheet for specific guidelines. Standard dosing is 30- 40 ml for use in preparation for colonoscopy. | | child | Not typically used in children unless under the specific care of a physician. | | additional notes | Dosing should be individually determined by a healthcare provider based on the patient's specific situation, including existing conditions. |
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| indications | | 1 | Preparation for colonoscopy or other endoscopic procedures. | | 2 | Treatment of constipation, especially in chronic or opioid-induced constipation. |
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| Safety in pregnancy | Limited data exists on the use of PEG solutions during pregnancy. It's considered generally safe when used appropriately for indications like preparation for colonoscopy. However, consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to weigh the benefits and potential risks in each case. Use during pregnancy should only be undertaken under strict medical supervision. |
| Safety in breastfeeding | Generally considered safe, but limited data exists to definitively confirm. It is recommended that women who are breastfeeding consult with a healthcare provider before taking PEG solutions. |
| side effects | | 1 | Abdominal cramping | | 2 | Nausea | | 3 | Vomiting | | 4 | Diarrhea | | 5 | Dehydration (less common with careful administration) | | 6 | Electrolyte imbalances (rare, especially if high doses are taken for extended periods). This risk is less for single use preparation doses. |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Severe dehydration | | 2 | Known intolerance to polyethylene glycol | | 3 | Severe electrolyte abnormalities | | 4 | Intestinal obstruction |
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| interactions | | 1 | Limited significant drug interactions reported. Specific interactions can exist with other medications (e.g., certain electrolyte-regulating drugs). | | 2 | Potential for interaction with medications affecting bowel transit or absorption |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Important to ensure adequate hydration before and after administration. Close monitoring for dehydration (especially with high-dose use) is imperative. | | 2 | Patients with known or suspected electrolyte disturbances should be monitored closely. | | 3 | Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function, although use for colonoscopy preparation is quite common. |
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| additional informations | | important notes | PEG solutions are administered orally. Various formulations are available (e.g., PEG 3350, PEG 4000). Product-specific guidelines should be followed. | | considerations | The patient's age, weight and any existing medical conditions should be factors considered by the physician when dosing. | | preparations and administration | A wide range of formulations are available from PEG/electrolyte solutions in powder form to PEG solutions for oral administration for colonoscopy preparation. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations |
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