| What it is |
Miralax is an osmotic laxative that pulls water into the colon to soften stools and relieve constipation. The active ingredient is polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). |
| Where it’s sold |
• Over‑the‑counter (OTC) in most Canadian pharmacies (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, London Drugs, Pharmasave, etc.)
• Large grocery‑store pharmacies (Walmart, Costco, No Frills) often carry it.
• Online retail sites that ship within Canada (Amazon.ca, Well.ca, etc.). |
| Brand names |
• Miralax (most common)
• Generic PEG 3350 (often sold in bulk “sachet” form or as a powder that you mix with water). |
| Typical adult dose |
• One 17 g sachet once daily (or 1 g of powder in 8 oz of water).
• If a single sachet isn’t enough, up to 3–5 sachets per day can be used under a healthcare provider’s guidance.
• Adults usually take it for a short period (days to a couple of weeks) and then taper off. |
| Typical child dose |
• Children 1–6 yrs: 7 g (≈½ sachet) once daily.
• Children 7–11 yrs: 10 g (≈¾ sachet) once daily.
• Always follow the child‑specific instructions on the label or from a pediatrician. |
| How it works |
PEG is a non‑absorbable, water‑holding polymer. It stays in the colon and draws fluid into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. |
| When to use |
• Occasional constipation (e.g., after a bowel movement that’s been delayed for a day or two).
• Certain irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) cases (IBS‑diarrhea or IBS‑mixed).
• After surgery or prolonged bed rest to prevent constipation. |
| Common side effects |
• Bloating, abdominal discomfort, gas, nausea, cramping.
• Rarely, electrolyte imbalances or dehydration if used excessively.
• Most side effects are mild and subside after a few days. |
| Precautions |
• Talk to a healthcare professional if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have a chronic health condition, or are on other medications (e.g., diuretics, antidiabetic drugs).
• Not recommended for people with intestinal obstruction, severe electrolyte disturbances, or certain chronic kidney disease stages.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time required. |
| Drug interactions |
• May reduce absorption of other orally‑taken drugs.
• If you’re taking antacids, calcium‑based supplements, or certain antibiotics, consider taking Miralax at a different time of day. |
| Storage |
Keep the sachets sealed in a cool, dry place. Once opened, mix with the recommended amount of fluid and drink immediately. Do not store the mixed solution for more than 24 hours. |
| Regulatory status |
• Miralax is an OTC medicine approved by Health Canada.
• It’s sold under the name Miralax or as generic PEG 3350, and is listed as a “generic drug” on the Health‑Canada website. |
| Where to get more info |
• Health‑Canada drug database: search for “polyethylene glycol 3350.”
• Your local pharmacy’s pharmacist can provide detailed dosing charts and safety information.
• For specific medical questions, consult your doctor or a registered pharmacist. |