Peg-Electrolytes
Synonyms :
Polyethylene Glycol, polyethylene Glycol 3350
Mechanism :
Polyethylene glycol/electrolytes solution is a laxative. It works by causing the colon to move contents along more quickly.
Indication :
- Cleaning out the bowel before a certain medical procedure (colonoscopy)
- Constipation
Contraindications :
Allergic to any ingredient in polyethylene glycol/electrolytes solution.
Certain stomach or bowel problems (e.g., blockage, retention, perforation, toxic inflammation, megacolon, ileus).
Abnormal blood electrolyte levels (e.g., potassium, sodium, magnesium).
Using other laxatives or bowel cleansing products.
Dosing :
Available as 17 g/packet.
Bowel preparation:
Start with 4 g/kg/day of PEG 3350 at rate of 25-40 mL/kg/hour orally over 4-10 hours till rectal effluent is clear. Max: 255 g/day; 4 litres/day.
Constipation:
>6 months: 0.2-0.8 g/kg PO OD for not more than 2 months. Max: 17 g/day.
Adverse Effect :
Common: Full or bloated feeling, vomiting.
Rare: decreased urine output, fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion, convulsions, coma
headache, dizziness, numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, fingertips, lips, or mouth; increased thirst, dry mouth, loss of appetite, muscle pain or cramps, shortness of breath,
swelling of the face, ankles, or hands, unusual tiredness or weakness.
Interaction :
Polyethylene glycol 3350 with electrolytes & celecoxib: Bowel cleansing can cause dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities, and the risk may be increased if using celecoxib or other medications that can affect kidney function. In severe cases, dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities can lead to irregular heart rhythm, seizures, and kidney problems.
Hepatic Dose :
Not been studied.