Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What are the brand names for Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

Glycolax (correct)

Laxido

Miralax (correct)

Zytiga

What is the therapeutic class of Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

Osmotic laxative

What is the mechanism of action for Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

Osmotic agent that causes retention of water in the stool resulting in a softer stool and more frequent bowel movements

What is a common indication for Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

Constipation Signup and view all the answers

What are the absolute contraindications for Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

Hypersensitivity to any component; bowel obstruction Signup and view all the answers

What dosage forms are available for Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

Powder for solution Signup and view all the answers

What is the usual dosing for adults over 17 years of age for Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

<blockquote> 17 yo: 17 g (1 heaping tbsp) per day dissolved in 4-8 oz of water, juice, soda, coffee, tea; max 14 days </blockquote> Signup and view all the answers

What are common adverse effects of Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

Common: stomach cramps, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, bloating Signup and view all the answers

How should Polyethylene Glycol 3350 be administered?

Dissolve in 4-8 oz water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea Signup and view all the answers

What is important clinical teaching regarding Polyethylene Glycol 3350?

Symptomatic improvement may not be seen for 2-4 days; available in many brands, instruct patient to follow administration instructions to prescribed brand Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Overview

Brand names include Miralax and Glycolax.
Classified as an osmotic laxative, aimed to alleviate constipation.

Mechanism of Action

Functions as an osmotic agent leading to water retention in the stool.
Results in softer stools and increased frequency of bowel movements.

Common Indications

Primarily indicated for treating constipation.

Contraindications and Warnings

Absolute contraindications include hypersensitivity to any ingredient.
Not to be used in cases of bowel obstruction.

Dosage Information

Available as a powder for solution.
Recommended dosage for adults over 17 years is 17 g (approximately 1 heaping tablespoon) daily, dissolved in 4-8 oz of liquid (water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea).
Maximum use duration is 14 days.

Adverse Effects

Common adverse effects include stomach cramps, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, and bloating.

Administration Guidelines

Must be dissolved in 4-8 oz of the chosen liquid for consumption.

Important Patient Information

Symptomatic improvement may take 2-4 days to manifest.
Various brands exist, so patients should be advised to adhere to specific administration instructions based on the prescribed brand.

Description

Test your knowledge on Polyethylene Glycol 3350 with these flashcards. Learn about its brand names, therapeutic class, mechanism of action, common indications, and contraindications. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals.