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ClearLax
Generic name: polyethylene glycol 3350
Brand names: ClearLax, GaviLAX, HealthyLax, MiraLax, Natura-Lax, PEG3350, SunMark ClearLax, Gialax, GlycoLax
What is ClearLax?
ClearLax is a laxative solution that adds more water to the intestinal tract to encourage bowel movements.
ClearLax is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements.
ClearLax may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I take ClearLax?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
To use the powder form of this medicine, measure your dose with the medicine cap on the bottle. This cap should have dose marks on the inside of it. Pour the powder into 4 to 8 ounces of a cold or hot beverage such as water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. Stir this mixture and drink it right away. Do not save it for later use.
ClearLax should produce a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of using the medication. This medicine usually causes loose or even watery stools.
Do not use ClearLax more than once per day. Call your doctor if you are still constipated or irregular after using this medication for 7 days in a row.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
You should not use this medicine if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could experience dangerous or life-threatening side effects from ClearLax.
Do not use ClearLax more than once per day. Call your doctor if you are still constipated or having irregular bowel movements after using this medication for 7 days in a row.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use ClearLax if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol, or if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from ClearLax.
People with eating disorders (such as anorexia or bulimia) should not use this medication without the advice of a doctor.
To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
- nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain;
- ulcerative colitis;
- irritable bowel syndrome;
- kidney disease; or
- if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted 2 weeks or longer.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether ClearLax will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether polyethylene glycol 3350 passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
ClearLax side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop taking ClearLax and call your doctor right away if you have:
- severe or bloody diarrhea;
- rectal bleeding;
- blood in your stools; or
- severe and worsening stomach pain.
Common side effects of ClearLax may include:
- bloating, gas, upset stomach;
- dizziness; or
- increased sweating.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any limits on food, drinks, or activities.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect ClearLax?
Other drugs may interact with polyethylene glycol 3350, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform each of your health care providers about all the medicines you are currently using and any medicine you begin or stop using.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.