PO (Adults ): 17 g (heaping tablespoon) in 8 oz of water once daily; may be used for up to 2 wk.
PO (Children >6 mo): 0.2–0.8 g/kg once daily, titrate to effect (max = 17 g/day).
Availability⬆⬇
(Generic available)
Oral powder: 17 g/dose (in 14-oz, 24-oz, and 26-oz containers)
Assessment⬆⬇
Assess patient for abdominal distention, presence of bowel sounds, and usual pattern of bowel function.
Assess color, consistency, and amount of stool produced.
Implementation⬆⬇
Do not confuse polyethylene glycol with propylene glycol.
PO: Dissolve powder in 8 oz of any beverage (hot or cold) prior to administration. Do not mix in starch-based thickeners used for patients with difficulty swallowing.
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Inform patient that 2–4 days may be required to produce a bowel movement; best results require 1–2 wk of use. PEG should not be used for more than 2 wk. Prolonged, frequent, or excessive use may result in electrolyte imbalance and laxative dependence.
Advise patient to notify health care professional if nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain, unusual cramps, bloating, diarrhea or a sudden change in bowel habits for >2 wk occurs. Advise patient to discontinue use and consult health care professional if severe diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, or nausea gets worse, or if they need to use for >1 wk.
Rep: Advise females of reproductive potential to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if breastfeeding.