POLYLAX

Presentation

Polylax : Each bottle contains 85 gm of Polyethylene glycol 3350 USP NF powder for solution.

Description

Polylax is a white powder for reconstitution. It is a synthetic poly glycol having an average molecular weight of 3350. Polylax is an osmotic agent that causes water to be retained with the stool. Polylax appears to have no effect on the active absorption or secretion of glucose or electrolytes.

Indications

For the treatment of constipation. Polylax should be used for 2 weeks or less or as directed by physician.

Dosage & Administration

The usual dose of Polylax is 17gm of powder per day (or as directed by physician) in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea. Each bottle of Polylax is supplied with a cup that is used to measure 17gm or 8.5gm of laxative powder when filled up to the marked line.

Side Effects

Nausea, abdominal bloating, cramping and flatulence may occur. High doses may produce diarrhea and excessive stool frequency, particularly in elderly nursing home patients. Patients taking other medications containing polyethylene glycol have occasionally developed urticarial suggestive of an allergic reaction.

Precautions

Patients with symptoms suggestive of bowel obstruction (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or distention) should be evaluated to rule out this condition before initiating Polylax therapy. Polylax should be administered after being dissolved in water, juice, coke, coffee or tea.

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy : It is not known whether Polyethylene glycol can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman, or can effect reproductive capacity. Polyethylene glycol should only be administered to a pregnant woman if clearly needed.

Lactation : There is no information on the use of Polyethylene glycol while nursing. Consultation with a physician is necessary in case of breastfeeding.

Drug Interaction

No specific drug interactions have been demonstrated.

Over Dose

There have been no reports of accidental over dosage. In the event of over dosage diarrhea would be the expected major event. If an overdose of drug occurred without concomitant ingestion of fluid, dehydration due to diarrhea may result. Medication should be terminated and free water administered.

Commercial Pack

Polylax : Each bottle contains 85 gm of Polyethylene glycol 3350 USP NF powder for solution. The cup on the bottle is used to measure of 17gm or 8.5gm Polylax powder.

Others

Information to the Patient

Polylax (Polyethylene Glycol 3350, USP NF powder for solution) is a prescription only laxative that has been prescribed by physician to treat constipation. This product should only be used by the person for whom it is prescribed.

How to take?

The dose of Polylax is 17gm each day or as directed by physician. It should always be taken by mouth. Measure the dose using the supplied cup, stir and dissolve in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea. Taking more than the prescribed dose may cause loss of fluid due to severe diarrhea.

How long should it be taken?

Polylax achieves its best results when used between one and two weeks. It may be discontinued after several satisfactory bowel movements. Should unusual cramps, bloating, or diarrhea occur, consultation with physician is needed. Polylaxis intended for up to a two-week course of therapy. It should not be used for a longer time unless directed by a physician.

After successfully completing the Polylax therapy (usually between one and two weeks) discussion with a physician is needed to change lifestyle that may produce more regular bowel habits (adequate dietary and fluid intake, regular exercise).