MiraLax is an effective treatment for temporary constipation.
it’s possible for you to buy it OTC if dietary and lifestyle changes do not relieve the symptoms.
Understanding Constipation
Constipation is a condition of fewer than three bowel movements a week.
Smith Collection/Gado/Contributor/Getty Images
General treatment options for constipation include getting enough fiber, drinking sufficient fluids, and exercising.
Laxatives are drugs used to manage constipation.
Constipation is a common condition affecting all ages and populations in the United States.
Nearly 16 out of 100 adults have symptoms of constipation.
It is more prevalent in older people.
About 33 out of 100 adults aged 60 and above have symptoms of constipation.
What Is Miralax?
MiraLax is FDA-approved for the short-term treatment of occasional (irregular) constipation in adults 18 and older.
PEG (not specifically PEG 3350) has many pharmaceutical and other uses.
As a medication, PEG is a part of the laxative drug class.
PEG 3350 is also available in powder form in various generic formulations.
How Long Does MiraLax Last in the Body?
Research is lacking on the time it takes for MiraLax’s active ingredient to leave the body.
MiraLax starts producing bowel movements within one to three days.
A typical Miralax dose is eliminated 48 to 72 hours after consumption.
The effects of MiraLax only last for a day or so.
It works as it travels through your digestive system.
Its effects gradually decrease as it is passed out of your body with the stool.
Therefore, it is essential to take it daily to benefit from it.
Dosage Overview
The recommended dose of MiraLax is 17 g in adults 18 and older.
It comes in bottles or packets containing powder for reconstitution.
To prepare MiraLax:
Ask your healthcare provider if MiraLax is safe for children younger than the recommended age.
Additionally, know that MiraLax may be habit-forming (potentially addictive).
Consequently, do not take a larger dose of MiraLax more often or take it longer than instructed.
Safely Taking MiraLax
Most laxatives are taken with meals or at bedtime.
Store Miralax at room temperature (between 68-77 degrees F).
Also, keep MiraLax and other drugs locked away and out of reach of children and pets.
Side Effects & Safety
Like all drugs, MiraLax carries the potential for adverse effects.
If side effects persist or worsen over time, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance.
You may be advised to stop using MiraLax or any other laxative.
Who Shouldn’t Take Miralax?
How Effective Is MiraLax?
Other commonly used OTC laxatives are Metamucil, Citrucel, and Dulcolax.
Summary
Constipation is a disorder of the GI tract.
It is characterized by a low frequency of stools and difficult stool passage, sometimes with pain and stiffness.
One such laxative is MiraLax (PEG 3350), an OTC powder reconstituted before use.
Its classified as an osmotic laxative for the short-term treatment of occasional constipation.
For most people, taking MiraLAX will cause a bowel movement within one to three days.
MiraLax stays in the body for nearly a day or two to produce therapeutic effects.
Therefore, repetitive dosing is required for a few days to achieve an effective result.
Frequently Asked Questions
MiraLax is gluten-free, sugar-free, as well as free of preservatives.
MiraLax and Dulcolax are both OTC laxatives.
Both contain different active ingredients but are effective in treating short-term constipation.
DailyMed.Label: MiraLax- polyethylene glycol 3350 powder, for solution.
Prescriber’s Digital Reference.Miralax - drug summary.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestion and Kidney Diseases.Constipation.
Forootan M, Bagheri N, Darvishi M.Chronic constipation.Medicine (Baltimore).
2018;97(20):e10631.
2017;10:513-519. doi:10.2147/DMSO.S140250
National Health Service.Laxatives.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Definition & facts for constipation.
Jang HJ, Shin CY, Kim KB.
SafetyEvaluation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) compounds for cosmetic use.Toxicol Res.
2008;4(7):489-92.
DailyMed.Label: PEG 3350- polyethylene glycol 3350 powder, for solution.
2008;28(2):256-265. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2036.2008.03727.x
MedlinePlus.Constipation-self care.
2016;7(2):274-282. doi:10.4292/wjgpt.v7.i2.274
MedlinePlus.Bisacodyl.
