2025 Guidelines for the Evaluation and Management of Adults With Congenital Heart Disease
December 19, 2025
Brand Name :
MiraLax, ClearLax
Synonyms :
polyethylene glycol (PEG)
Class :
Osmatic laxative
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Powder (Sachet)
14 g
Take one sachet orally daily
Take eight sachets daily orally and consumed within 6 hours
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Powder (Sachet)
14 g
For 13 to 18 years old:
Take one sachet orally daily
Refer to adult dosing
Actions and Spectrum
Macrogol works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and increasing its bulk. This facilitates bowel movements and helps alleviate constipation.
Macrogol has hygroscopic properties thus it can attract and hold water molecules. This property is essential for its laxative action, as it helps to soften the stool.
Frequency not defined
Indigestion
Bloating and wind
Nausea
Stomach pain or aches
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Black Box Warning
None
Contraindication/Caution:
Contraindication:
Caution:
Pregnancy consideration:
Pregnancy category: N/A
Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown
Pregnancy Categories:
Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.
Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.
Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.
Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category.
Pharmacology
The osmotic action of macrogol increases the volume of stool, promoting peristalsis and aiding in the movement of stool through the intestines.
Pharmacodynamics
The increased water content in the stool results in softer and bulkier stools. This softening effect makes it easier for the stool to move through the intestines and facilitates bowel movements.
Pharmacokinetics
Limited information available on ADME.
Administration
Macrogol is administered orally, and it is available in the form of a powder.
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: macrogol
Why do we use macrogol?
Macrogol is commonly used as an osmotic laxative.
Macrogol is used to cleanse the bowel before medical procedures.