How does it work?

Polyethlene glycol belongs to a class of medicines known as 'osmotic laxatives'. Polyethylene glycol is not absorbed from the gut which causes water to be drawn into the lower bowel. This increases the water content and volume of the stools, making them softer and easier to pass, therefore relieving constipation. The presence of sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride and potassium chloride in the formulation ensures that there is almost no gain or loss of sodium, potassium or water.

What is it used for?

Compressed and hardened faeces causing a blockage of the bowel (faecal impaction)

Long-term ongoing constipation

Warning!

Drink plenty of fluid whilst taking this medicine.

Use with caution in

Dehydration

Fatigue

Heart failure

Imbalance of salt concentrations in the blood (electrolyte imbalance)

Shortness of breath

Swelling due to excess fluid retention (oedema)

Not to be used in

Blockage of the gut (intestinal obstruction)

Children

Crohn's disease

Hole in the gut (intestinal perforation)

Inflammation of the bowel and back passage

Sudden expansion of the large intestine seen in advanced ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease (toxic megacolon)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Dissolve or mix this medication with water before taking.

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