Is long term use of MiraLAX harmful?

Conclusions: Polyethylene glycol laxative is safe and effective for treating constipation in adult and elderly patients for periods up to 12 months, with no evidence of tachyphylaxis.
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What are the long term side effects of MiraLAX?

Within the past few years, the FDA has received a number of reports of adverse events including neuropsychiatric symptoms in children taking PEG 3350, which include tics, anxiety, rage, paranoia, phobias, mood swings and depression.
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Is MiraLAX safe to take daily long term?

You should use MiraLAX® for no more than seven days. If you need to use a laxative for longer than one week, stop use and consult your doctor.
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Can your body become dependent on MiraLAX?

When PEG 3350 is consumed, it stays in the gut and holds water. This makes the poop within the gut soft and easy to pass, gently relieving constipation. PEG 3350 does not work on the muscles or nerves of the gut so it not habit forming, nor does it cause a dependance on the product.
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Does MiraLax hurt your kidneys?

Yes, Miralax (polyethylene glycol with salts) is safe to use with Stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD).
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Why is MiraLAX so bad for you



Can you build up a tolerance to MiraLax?

4.Is there tolerance or dependence on MiraLax over time? According to the available information about MiraLax, there should be no reason to believe that a tolerance to MiraLax could develop. Kids should be transitioned to a high-fiber diet and weaned off MiraLax as soon as possible.
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Is polyethylene glycol safe for long term use?

In summary, PEG seems to be a safe medication for long-term treatment of constipation in children. It should be considered a favorable option for long-term therapy for children, particularly because of excellent patient acceptance.
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Does MiraLAX cause neurological problems?

Thousands of parents whose children were prescribed MiraLax observed deeply troubling neuropsychiatric problems in their children after using MiraLax such as: Depression. Anger. Anxiety.
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Can you reverse laxative dependency?

Those with a past of laxative abuse can go weeks without having a bowel movement. This can cause unpleasant physical symptoms such as cramps and bloating, as well as emotional symptoms such as shame, irritability, and anxiety. The effects may be reversible, but recovery may be a slow process.
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What can I take instead of MiraLAX?

Instead, over-the-counter drugs such as polyethylene glycol (Miralax and generic), bisacodyl (Dulcolax laxative tablets and generic), or senna (Ex-Lax, Senokot, and generic) are a far better choice. They tend to work at least as well, often have more evidence for their safety, and are much cheaper.
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Which is better MiraLAX or Metamucil?

Metamucil (psyllium)

Miralax (Polyethylene Glycol) provides effective relief of constipation without "cramping" your style. Helps get things moving. Metamucil (psyllium) is a natural fiber that is cheap and effective at relieving constipation. Miralax is the most recommended laxative by pharmacists and doctors.
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When should you not use MiraLAX?

Who should not take MIRALAX?
  1. low amount of calcium in the blood.
  2. low amount of sodium in the blood.
  3. low amount of potassium in the blood.
  4. severe ulcerative colitis.
  5. toxic megacolon.
  6. colon inflammation caused by toxic substance.
  7. blocked bowels with decreased peristaltic movement.
  8. blockage of the stomach or intestine.
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How do I stop taking laxatives after years?

WAYS TO STOP ABUSING LAXATIVES:
  1. Stop taking laxatives right away. ...
  2. Drink at least 6 to 10 cups of water a day. ...
  3. Include physical activity in the daily routine to regulate bowel function. ...
  4. Eat regularly, optimally three times a day.
  5. Eat foods that naturally promote more normal bowel movements.
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Can't have a bowel movement without laxatives?

Take over-the-counter medicines

If you've been taking laxatives for a long time and can't have a bowel movement without taking a laxative, talk with your doctor about how you can slowly stop using them. If you stop taking laxatives, over time, your colon should start moving stool normally.
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How do I heal my gut after laxative abuse?

Many techniques can also remedy the discomfort.
  1. Drink at least 6-10 cups of water. ...
  2. Get some physical exercise each day (intensity depending on your healthcare provider's recommendation) to help regulate bowel function.
  3. Eat regularly, at least three meals a day at regular intervals.
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Can too much MiraLAX cause problems?

Overdose: What Happens If I Take Too Much Miralax? Symptoms of a Miralax overdose may include diarrhea, excessive thirst, confusion, or seizures. Dehydration due to diarrhea might occur if you aren't drinking enough fluids. 1 If you have taken too much Miralax, stop taking the medication and drink plenty of water.
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Can MiraLAX cause heart problems?

traZODone polyethylene glycol 3350

TraZODone can cause an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious and potentially life-threatening, although it is a relatively rare side effect.
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What are the dangers of polyethylene glycol?

Polyethylene glycol (Miralax, Glycolax) is an over-the-counter medication that treats constipation. Potential side effects of polyethylene glycol include nausea, stomach discomfort, and gas. Serious side effects are rare. They include allergic reactions, diarrhea, and serious gastrointestinal problems.
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Can you become dependent on polyethylene glycol?

Does PEG 3350 cause dependence/tolerance when used long-term? No. PEG 3350 works by keeping more water in the stool so it is softer and easier to pass. It does not work on the nerves or muscles of the gut and so does not cause any dependence or damage.
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Is polyethylene glycol safe for kidneys?

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is an isosmotic solution that passes through the bowel without absorption or secretion. Previous studies have shown that PEG is safe in patients with CKD. High-volume PEG (4 L) solutions have been widely used and are known to be effective for bowel cleansing.
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Is polyethylene glycol a carcinogen?

Depending on manufacturing processes, PEGs may be contaminated with measurable amounts of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies ethylene oxide as a known human carcinogen and 1,4-dioxane as a possible human carcinogen.
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What is the best laxative for the elderly?

Osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (brand name Miralax) are well-tolerated by most older adults, and can be used daily.
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Who is at risk for laxative overuse?

By far the largest group is made up of individuals suffering from an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia nervosa. The prevalence of laxative abuse has been reported to range from approximately 10% to 60% of individuals in this group.
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How do you retrain your bowels?

What to expect during bowel retraining
  1. Choose a regular time each day to try to have a bowel movement. As a general rule, the best time is 20 to 40 minutes after eating. ...
  2. Spend 10 to 15 minutes on the toilet to see if you can have a bowel movement. ...
  3. If you don't pass a stool, resume your regular daily activities.
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What happens if you take laxatives for too long?

The chronic use of laxatives on a continued long-term basis can cause severe dehydration, a reduction in electrolytes, and a disturbance in mineral balance like magnesium, sodium, potassium, and phosphates, which allow muscles to work optimally.
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