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HealthyLax
Generic name: polyethylene glycol 3350
Brand names: ClearLax, GaviLAX, HealthyLax, MiraLax, Natura-Lax, PEG3350, SunMark ClearLax, Gialax, GlycoLax
What is HealthyLax?
HealthyLax is a laxative solution that adds more water to the intestinal tract to help trigger bowel movements.
HealthyLax is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements.
HealthyLax 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 HealthyLax?
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. 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 for later use.
HealthyLax 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 HealthyLax 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 have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from HealthyLax.
Do not use HealthyLax 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.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use HealthyLax 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 experience dangerous or life-threatening side effects from HealthyLax.
People with eating disorders (like anorexia or bulimia) should not use this medication without a doctor's advice.
To ensure this medicine is safe for you, inform 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 unknown whether HealthyLax will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is unknown 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.
HealthyLax 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 HealthyLax 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 HealthyLax may include:
- bloating, gas, upset stomach;
- dizziness; or
- increased sweating.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to 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 attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect HealthyLax?
Other drugs may interact with polyethylene glycol 3350, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform all your health care providers about all 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.