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Polyethylene Glycol 3350 powder for oral solution is used to treat occasional constipation in adults aged 18 years and above. Use it for 2 weeks or less, or for as long as the physician directs.
Pharmacology
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 works mainly through an osmotic effect. It causes water to be retained in the colon, and this produces a watery stool. The diarrhoea it brings on cleanses the bowel quickly, usually within four hours.
The medicine comes as a white powder that is made up into a liquid before use. Chemically, it's a synthetic polyglycol with an average molecular weight of 3350. Because it is an osmotic agent, it holds water in the stool. Polyethylene Glycol appears to have no effect on the active absorption or secretion of glucose or electrolytes.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
The usual dose of Polyethylene Glycol is 17 gm of powder a day (or as directed by the physician), mixed in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea. Each bottle comes with a cup, and when it is filled up to the marked line it measures 17 gm or 8.5 gm of the laxative powder.
Information to the Patient: Polyethylene Glycol has been prescribed by a physician to treat constipation. Only the person it was prescribed for should use it.
How to take: The dose is 17 gm each day, or as directed by the physician. Always take it by mouth. Measure the dose with the cup supplied, then stir it into a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea until it dissolves. Taking more than the prescribed dose may cause loss of fluid because of severe diarrhea.
How long should it be taken: Polyethylene Glycol gives its best results when used for one to two weeks. You may stop it after several satisfactory bowel movements. If unusual cramps, bloating or diarrhea occur, you need to consult a physician. The medicine is meant for a course of up to two weeks, and it should not be used for longer unless a physician directs it. Once the course is successfully finished (usually one to two weeks), you need to discuss with a physician how to change your lifestyle so that bowel habits become more regular (adequate dietary and fluid intake, regular exercise).
Side Effects
Polyethylene glycol can cause nausea, bloating of the abdomen, cramping and flatulence. High doses may bring on diarrhoea and an excessive number of stools, particularly in elderly patients in nursing homes. Patients taking other medicines that contain polyethylene glycol have occasionally developed urticaria, which suggests an allergic reaction.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
If someone has symptoms that could point to a bowel obstruction (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or distention), they should be examined first to rule it out before starting Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Glycol. The powder should be dissolved in water, juice, coke, coffee or tea before it is taken.
Contraindications
Polyethylene glycol should not be given to anyone who has, or may have, a bowel obstruction. It should also not be given to people who are known to be allergic to polyethylene glycol.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Nobody knows yet whether Polyethylene glycol can harm an unborn baby when it is given to a pregnant woman, or whether it affects the ability to have children. So a pregnant woman should only be given Polyethylene glycol if it is clearly needed.
There is no information on using Polyethylene glycol while breastfeeding. A mother who is nursing should talk to her doctor first.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Overdose
No accidental overdose has been reported with this medicine. If someone did take too much, diarrhoea would be the main effect to expect. When the overdose is taken without any fluid, the diarrhoea can lead to dehydration. In that case, stop the medicine and give free water.
⚠️ In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Storage
Store this medicine below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Common questions about Aqualax 100%
What is Aqualax 100% Powder for Solution?
Aqualax 100% Powder for Solution is a medicine that contains Polyethylene Glycol 3350. It is made by Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd. It belongs to the Osmotic purgatives group of medicines.
What is Aqualax used for?
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 powder for oral solution is used to treat occasional constipation in adults aged 18 years and above. Use it for 2 weeks or less, or for as long as the physician directs.
What are the side effects of Aqualax?
Polyethylene glycol can cause nausea, bloating of the abdomen, cramping and flatulence. High doses may bring on diarrhoea and an excessive number of stools, particularly in elderly patients in nursing homes.
Can I take Aqualax during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Nobody knows yet whether Polyethylene glycol can harm an unborn baby when it is given to a pregnant woman, or whether it affects the ability to have children. So a pregnant woman should only be given Polyethylene glycol if it is clearly needed. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
What happens if I take too much Aqualax?
No accidental overdose has been reported with this medicine. If someone did take too much, diarrhoea would be the main effect to expect. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
How should I store Aqualax?
Store this medicine below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Do I need a prescription for Aqualax?
Aqualax is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.