Polyethylene Glycol - Electrolyte 1

What it is and how it works

Contains macrogol (polyethylene glycol 3350 or 4000) with sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and, in some products, sodium sulfate or ascorbate. The macrogol retains water osmotically in the bowel while the electrolytes minimise net gain or loss of water and salts.

Indications

Bowel cleansing before colonoscopy, radiological examination or colorectal surgery; chronic constipation and faecal impaction (lower-concentration products).

Dosage and administration (summary)

Taken orally after reconstitution with water; for bowel preparation, usually 2–4 litres taken as a single or split dose before the procedure, and for constipation 1–3 sachets daily, according to the product.

Contraindications

Gastrointestinal obstruction or perforation, ileus, gastric retention, toxic colitis or megacolon, and impaired consciousness with risk of aspiration.

Warnings and precautions

Ensure adequate hydration; use with caution in renal impairment, heart failure, the elderly and patients prone to electrolyte disturbance. Absorption of other oral medicines may be reduced if taken around the time of bowel preparation.

Pregnancy

May be used in pregnancy if clinically necessary; minimal systemic absorption.

Storage and supply

Store powder below 25 °C; reconstituted solution is usually kept refrigerated and used within the time stated by the manufacturer.

Source: reference summary prepared from the EU SmPC/EPAR, BNF and WHO Model Formulary. The approved product information in Iran governs.