Polyethylene Glycol 3350
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is an osmotic laxative. It is commonly used for short-term treatment of constipation as well as for bowel cleansing prior to medical procedures like colonoscopies. It works by drawing water into the bowel, which softens the stool and promotes bowel movements without irritating the lining of the intestines.
Dosage by Body Weight
The standard adult dose is 17 grams (approximately one heaping tablespoon or one single-use packet) of powder dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of a beverage (water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea) taken once daily. Do not use for more than 7 days unless directed by a physician. For children, consult a pediatrician as dosing is typically adjusted based on weight and age.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Consult pediatrician
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy are not established for infants in over-the-counter settings.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 2.5 g to 3.5 g dissolved in 2 to 4 oz of liquid
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Consult pediatrician before use. Monitor closely for loose stools or diarrhea.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 4 g to 5 g dissolved in 4 oz of liquid
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure the child maintains adequate hydration throughout treatment.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 5.5 g to 7.5 g dissolved in 4 oz of liquid
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Approximate pediatric target is 0.5 g/kg/day. Adjust under medical supervision.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 8 g to 10 g dissolved in 4 to 6 oz of liquid
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed the recommended duration of use without consulting a pediatrician.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine / Consult pediatrician | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy are not established for infants in over-the-counter settings. |
| 5-7 kg | 2.5 g to 3.5 g dissolved in 2 to 4 oz of liquid | Once daily | Consult pediatrician before use. Monitor closely for loose stools or diarrhea. |
| 8-10 kg | 4 g to 5 g dissolved in 4 oz of liquid | Once daily | Ensure the child maintains adequate hydration throughout treatment. |
| 11-15 kg | 5.5 g to 7.5 g dissolved in 4 oz of liquid | Once daily | Approximate pediatric target is 0.5 g/kg/day. Adjust under medical supervision. |
| 16-20 kg | 8 g to 10 g dissolved in 4 to 6 oz of liquid | Once daily | Do not exceed the recommended duration of use without consulting a pediatrician. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat occasional constipation by retaining water in the stool, softening it, and increasing the frequency of bowel movements.
Generic Name
Polyethylene Glycol 3350Branded Drug Names
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.