Treatment for constipation includes the use of Polyethylene glycol as a laxative, available as an OTC product. Commercially available under different brand names including MiraLax, it is also used prior to colonoscopy procedures to prepare the bowel. When used in home settings for constipation or for similar reasons, patients often tend to get confused about the dosage, especially when measured with different types of spoons. Following subsections offer answers to one such common query – MiraLax – what is the dosage in teaspoons or tablespoons? Information includes details about the right way to use the product, which will help patients and caregivers follow manufacturer instructions.
Overview of MiraLax
As outlined, MiraLax is a laxative, belonging to the category of synthetic polymers and is often used as part of a combination formulation for preparation prior to colonoscopy in adults. The product is created through polymerization of ethylene oxide and linking of ethylene glycol. MiraLax is water soluble and depending on the molecular weight, turn to waxy solids from liquids. The variations in the molecular weight determine its use either as an OTC osmotic laxative or for preparation of the colon. When used as a combination, it is typically used with sodium ascorbate and sodium sulfate, apart from ascorbic acid, potassium chloride and sodium chloride.
How the mechanical action of MiraLax makes it useful in gastroenterology
By virtue of various properties MiraLax is used in gastroenterology for desired outcomes. For instance, it possesses water-binding properties, and has relatively lesser intestinal absorption when the molecular mass is higher. It is also known to be less toxic, apart from bacterial metabolism, which makes it potent as a therapeutic agent.
All osmotic laxatives are known to comprise substances that are not easily absorbed. Additionally, laxatives of this category are known retain water in the lumen by drawing water. This in turn results in the binding of water molecules, which in turn causes the stool to loosen.
MiraLax – what is the dosage in teaspoons or tablespoons?
With the basic information about the laxative in place, it is time to address the question. As mentioned above, one of the reasons regarding the confusion is the different spoons used. So here is a quick clarification about spoons typically used. The teaspoon is smaller in size when compared with a tablespoon. In terms of volume, 01 tablespoon can contain substances thrice the volume in a teaspoon. In other words, if you take one tablespoon of a product on a day, and if you are using a teaspoon the next day, you will need three teaspoons of the product to get the same quantity.
It would be wrong to link quantity of products with the spoon, as this depends on the consistency and weight of products. For instance, 01 teaspoon or tablespoon of salt may have quantity that is different from 01 teaspoon or tablespoon of a different substance. It is therefore necessary to link spoons to volume or quantity as per the product. Before we look at the dosage of MiraLax, here are additional details about the product when used for treating constipation.
MiraLax and constipation
Though osmotic laxatives are available as OTC products, it is important to seek the evaluation of a doctor to understand the reason behind constipation. This will help in treating the underlying condition better, before and relying on the most suitable treatment. Different types of treatment are used when treating different reasons for constipation. For instance, osmotic laxatives are known to work by softening the stool and relaxing the intestines through its mechanism of action. This is suitable for specific reasons of constipation.
Instructions for use of MiraLax powder from single serve sachets
Typically, available in packs of 17 grams, MiraLax is to be taken once daily, but this could differ, depending on conditions. However, when taken in doses in excess of one per day, it is to be only with the advice of a doctor. The powder is to be mixed with a liquid, preferably water or juice in the right proportions. For instance, water in an average sized glass is usually around 240 ml. Mix the contents of one pack in one such glass of liquid and take once daily. You could also use soda or tea instead of water, if it is more agreeable to your system. The contents are to be mixed properly to ensure that it is fully dissolved.
Instructions for use of MiraLax powder from bulk bottles
In the event of MiraLax being used in bulk bottles, the cap is to be used for the purpose of measuring. The cap in the bottle has been designed to be used for measuring each serving. Mix the contents of one cap of MiraLax with one glass of liquid, ensure that it is fully dissolved and consume once daily.
Special instructions
All products, including OTC products are known to have some interaction with other substances. It is therefore important to learn all about any possible interactions and take necessary precautions for proper use. For instance, in the case of MiraLax, liquid thickeners may interact and this could cause choking. Seek medical advice when liquid thickeners are used. It is of utmost importance to diligently follow dosage instructions, as undesirable outcomes are generally linked to excessive dosage or incorrect intake schedule.
MiraLax is not to be taken continually beyond a fortnight. The only exception is when extended use beyond two weeks is recommended by a doctor. In the event of the laxative not offering desired outcomes or relief, it is to be replaced with other options. Certain effects such as pain in the stomach or diarrhea that may be experienced when on MiraLax is to be treated as undesirable, if it is persistent in nature. In other words, mild effects that are short term in nature are not a cause for alarm. But when the effects are persistent or intense, it is to be treated as adverse. Continued use of the laxative could result in addiction, and may also be a cause for mineral imbalance and possible dehydration.
Education: Master’s in Clinical Nutrition from Tufts University. Experience: 6 years of experience as a registered dietitian and freelance writer, creating content on nutritional science and weight management for various health websites.
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