Generic name: polyethylene glycol 3350 (pol ee ETH il een GLYE kol)
Brand name: ClearLax, GaviLAX, Gialax, GlycoLax, MiraLax, PEG3350, SunMark ClearLax
Drug class: Laxatives
GlycoLax is a laxative solution that increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements.
GlycoLax is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements.
GlycoLax may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use GlycoLax if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from GlycoLax.
Do not use GlycoLax more than once per day. Call your doctor if you are still constipated or irregular after using this medication for 7 days in a row.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol, or if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from GlycoLax.
People with eating disorders (such as anorexia or bulimia) should not use this medication without the advice of a doctor.
To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
- nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain;
- ulcerative colitis;
- irritable bowel syndrome;
- kidney disease; or
- if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted 2 weeks or longer.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether GlycoLax will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether polyethylene glycol 3350 passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take GlycoLax?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use GlycoLax in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
To use the powder form of this medicine, measure your dose with the medicine cap on the bottle. This cap should contain dose marks on the inside of it. Pour the powder into 4 to 8 ounces of a cold or hot beverage such as water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. Stir this mixture and drink it right away. Do not save for later use.
GlycoLax should produce a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of using the medication. This medicine normally causes loose or even watery stools.
Do not use GlycoLax more than once per day. Call your doctor if you are still constipated or irregular after using this medication for 7 days in a row.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while taking GlycoLax?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
GlycoLax side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop taking GlycoLax and call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe or bloody diarrhea;
- rectal bleeding;
- blood in your stools; or
- severe and worsening stomach pain.
Common side effects may include:
- bloating, gas, upset stomach;
- dizziness; or
- increased sweating.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect GlycoLax?
Other drugs may interact with polyethylene glycol 3350, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.