PO (Adults ): 17 g (heaping tablespoon) in 8 ounces 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-ounce, 24-ounce, and 26-ounce containers)
Assessment⬆⬇
Assess for abdominal distention, presence of bowel sounds, and usual pattern of bowel function.
Assess color, consistency, and amount of stool produced.
Lab Test Considerations:
May cause electrolyte imbalances with diarrhea or use that is frequent or prolonged.
Implementation⬆⬇
Do not confuse polyethylene glycol with propylene glycol.
PO: Dissolve powder in 8 ounces 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⬆⬇
Explain the purpose and side effects of medication. Advise to take as directed. Advise patient to read Patient Information before starting therapy.
Inform patient that 2–4 days may be required to produce a bowel movement; best results require 1–2 wk of use. Polyethylene glycol 3350 should not be used for >2 wk. Prolonged, frequent, or excessive use may result in electrolyte imbalance and laxative dependence.
Advise patient to notify health care provider 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 provider if severe diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, or nausea gets worse or if they need to use for >1 wk.
Advise patient to notify health care provider of all Rx or OTC medications, vitamins, or herbal products being taken and to consult with health care provider before taking other medications.
Rep: Advise women of reproductive potential to notify health care provider if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if breastfeeding.