Polycol
Polycol Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Food Interaction and all others data.
The primary mode of action is thought to be through the osmotic effect of polyethylene glycol 3350 which causes water to be retained in the colon and produces a watery stool. Polycol induces as diarrhea which rapidly cleanses the bowel, usually within four hours.
The osmotic effect of PEG produces a copious watery diarrhea. The onset of action of PEG 3350 is about 1 to 2 hours after oral ingestion. The colonic transit of polyethylene glycol occurs in a dose-dependent manner. When used for bowel preparation before colonscopy, electrolytes are typically added in the oral solution to prevent dehydration and electrolyte disturbances. As an over-the-counter laxative, the OTC product does not contain any salts that can be absorbed. In a study involving healthy subjects, PEG 3350 had negligible effects on colonic fluid absorption or with the ability of the colonic mucosa to generate and sustain steep electrochemical gradients.
| Trade Name | Polycol |
| Generic | Polyethylene Glycol |
| Polyethylene Glycol Other Names | Macrogol, Macrogol 3350, Macrogol 4000, Macrogol 6000, PEG, Polyethylene glycol 3350, Polyethylene glycol 4000, Polyethylene glycol 6000 |
| Weight | 85gm |
| Type | Powder for Solution |
| Protein binding | There is limited information on the protein binding profile of polyethylene glycols. |
| Groups | Approved, Vet approved |
| Therapeutic Class | Osmotic purgatives |
| Manufacturer | Apex Pharmaceuticals Ltd |
| Available Country | Bangladesh |
| Last Updated: | September 19, 2023 at 7:00 am |
Uses
This is white powder for reconstitution. It is a synthetic polyglycol having an average molecular weight of 3350. Polycol is an osmotic agent that causes water to be retained with the stool. Polycol appears to have no effect on the active absorption or secretion of glucose or electrolytes.
Polycol is used for the treatment of constipation. This should be used for 2 weeks or less or as directed by physician. Polycol 3350 is a prescription only laxative that has been prescribed by physician to treat constipation. This product should only be used by the person for whom it is prescribed.
Polycol is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Chronic Constipation, Constipation, Dry Eye Syndrome (DES), Dry Eyes, Occasional Constipation, Bowel preparation therapy, Eye lubrication
How Polycol works
Osmotic laxatives contain substances that are poorly absorbable and draw water into the lumen of the bowel. Polyethylene glycol functions is an osmotic laxative that causes increased water retention in the lumen of the colon by binding to water molecules, thereby producing loose stools.
Dosage
Polycol dosage
The usual dose of Polycol is 17 gm of powder per day (or as directed by physician) in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea. Each bottle of Polycol is supplied with a cup that is used to measure 17 gm or 8.5 gm of laxative powder when filled upto the marked line.
It should always be taken by mouth. Measure the dose using the supplied cup, stir and dissolve in a glass of water, juice, coke, coffee or tea. Taking more than the prescribed dose may cause loss of fluid due to severe diarrhea.
Duration of Treatment
Polycol achieves its best results when used between one and two weeks. It may be discontinued after several satisfactory bowel movements. Should unusual cramps, bloating, or diarrhea occur, consultation with physician is needed. Polycol is intended for up to a two-week course of therapy. It should not be used for a longer time unless directed by a physician. After successfully completing the Polycol therapy (usually between one and two weeks) discussion with a physician is needed to change lifestyle that may produce more regular bowel habits (adequate dietary and fluid intake, regular exercise).
Side Effects
Nausea, abdominal bloating, cramping and flatulence may occur. High doses may produce diarrhea and excessive stool frequency, particularly in elderly nursing home patients. Patients taking other medications containing polyethylene glycol have occasionally developed urticaria suggestive of an allergic reaction.
Toxicity
The oral LD50 of PEG 3350 in rats is 22000 mg/kg.
There is limited clinical information on the overdose of polyethylene glycols. Based on the pharmacological action of the compound, severe diarrhea may be suspected. Overdose of polyethylene glycols should be responded with symptomatic and supportive care.
Precaution
Patients with symptoms suggestive of bowel obstruction (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or distention) should be evaluated to rule out this condition before initiating Polycol therapy. Polycol should be administered after being dissolved in water, juice, coke, coffee or tea.
Interaction
No specific drug interactions have been demonstrated.
Food Interaction
- Avoid alcohol. Withdrawing from alcohol increases the risk of seizures, which is also caused by the drug.
- Avoid milk and dairy products.
- Avoid solid foods. Consume only clear liquids from the start of drug treatment until after the colonoscopy.
Volume of Distribution
Following a two-day split-dosing regimen of an oral suspension containing 140 grams of PEG 3350 in healthy subjects, the mean volume of distribution was 48,481 L.
Elimination Route
Following a two-day split-dosing regimen of an oral suspension containing 140 grams of PEG 3350 in healthy subjects, the mean Cmax was 2.7 mcg/mL and the mean Tmax was 3 hours. Typically, polyethylene glycols with a high molecular weight are poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration.
Half Life
Following a two-day split-dosing regimen of an oral suspension containing 140 grams of PEG 3350 in healthy subjects, the mean half life was 4.1 hours.
Clearance
There is limited information on the clearance rate of polyethylene glycols.
Elimination Route
Following administration of an oral suspension containing 140 grams of PEG 3350 in healthy subjects, up to 85% to 99% of the compound was excreted in the feces.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use
Pregnancy: It is not known whether Polyethylene glycol can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman, or can effect reproductive capacity. Polyethylene glycol should only be administered to a pregnant woman if clearly needed.
Lactation: There is no information on the use of Polyethylene glycol while nursing. Consultation with a physician is necessary in case of breastfeeding.
Contraindication
Polyethylene glycol is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected bowel obstruction and patients known to be allergic to polyethylene glycol.
Acute Overdose
There have been no reports of accidental overdosage. In the event of overdosage diarrhea would be the expected major event. If an overdose of drug occurred without concomitant ingestion of fluid, dehydration due to diarrhea may result. Medication should be terminated and free water administered.
Innovators Monograph
You find simplified version here Polycol
FAQ
What is Polycol used for?
Polycol is used to treat occasional constipation. Polycol and their derivatives are widely used in cosmetics as surfactants, cleansing agents, emulsifiers, skin conditioners, and humectants.
How safe is Polycol?
All children preferred PEG to previously used laxatives, and daily compliance was measured as good in 90% of children. Long-term PEG therapy is safe and is well accepted by children with chronic constipation with and without encopresis.
How does Polycol work?
Polycol works by causing water to be retained with the stool.
What are the common side effects of Polycol?
Common side effects of Polycol are include:
- Irritation Of The Rectum
- A Sleep Disorder
- Excessive Thirst
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach Cramps
- Abdominal Bloating
- A Feeling Of General Discomfort Called Malaise
- Intense Abdominal Pain
- Upper Abdominal Pain
Is Polycol safe during pregnancy?
Polycol is considered safe for short-term use during pregnancy. Patients using Polycol experience faster relief of clinical symptoms and shorter disease duration.
Is Polycol safe during breastfeeding?
Caution is recommended. No effects on the infant are expected since systemic exposure to the breastfeeding woman is negligible.
When should I take Polycol ?
Take the medicine 2 to 4 hours after you last ate.
How much Polycol can I take daily?
Clinical studies in constipated adult patients have shown that a 17- or 34-g daily dose of Polycol 3350 is safe and effective for the treatment of constipation, with the best efficacy seen in wk 2 of treatment.
Is Polycol safe for long term use in adults?
Polycol is widely used in clinical practice for children with constipation, but, to our knowledge, there are no data on the long-term safety profile of this relatively new laxative in children or in adults.
How many time can I take Polycol daily?
Polycol is usually taken once a day as needed for up to 2 weeks.
How long does Polycol take to work?
Polycol may take to work 2 to 4 days.
What is the half-life of Polycol?
Results Peak Polycol plasma concentrations occurred at 2–4 h and declined to nonquantifiable levels usually within 18 h after single and multiple doses, with a half-life of about 4–6 h.
What happens if I take too much Polycol?
Overuse may cause diarrhea, dehydration, and mineral imbalance. If you are using nonprescription Polycol for self-treatment of occasional constipation and this treatment has not worked after 7 days, talk to your doctor for additional treatment advice.
What happen If I missed Polycol?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Who should not take Polycol?
You should not use Polycol 3350 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 Polycol. Do not use Polycol 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.
Can Polycol affect my kidneys?
Several studies have shown that Polycol may also impair renal function. One recent population-based study reported that the use of Polycol was associated with an increased risk of acute kidney injury.
Will Polycol affect my fertility /
Polycol can affect sperm and greatly diminish fertility.
