From the FDA Drug Label
In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. The treatment for polyethylene glycol overdose is to seek immediate medical help or contact a Poison Control Center 1.
From the Research
Treatment for polyethylene glycol (PEG) overdose primarily involves supportive care, as PEG is generally considered to have low toxicity, and healthcare providers should monitor for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which are the most common complications, as noted in various studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Overview of PEG Overdose Treatment
The management of PEG overdose focuses on addressing the symptoms and preventing further complications. Since PEG is not significantly absorbed systemically, the primary concern is the potential for fluid and electrolyte disturbances due to its effect of drawing water into the intestinal lumen.
Key Components of Treatment
- Monitoring: Close monitoring for signs of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances is crucial. This includes regular checks of vital signs, fluid status, and laboratory tests such as electrolyte panels and renal function tests.
- Fluid Replacement: Intravenous fluid replacement with normal saline or lactated Ringer's solution is recommended to correct dehydration and maintain fluid balance.
- Electrolyte Supplementation: Based on laboratory findings, supplementation of potassium, sodium, and chloride may be necessary to correct electrolyte imbalances.
- Antiemitic Therapy: For patients experiencing nausea and vomiting, antiemetics like ondansetron 4-8 mg IV or promethazine 12.5-25 mg IV can be administered.
- Hospital Admission: In severe cases with significant fluid losses, hospital admission for close monitoring and continued fluid resuscitation may be necessary.
Considerations Regarding Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is not typically recommended for PEG overdose because it does not effectively bind to PEG, as suggested by studies on the adsorption properties of activated charcoal in the presence of PEG-electrolyte lavage solution 3, 5.
Prognosis and Recovery
Most patients who receive appropriate supportive care for PEG overdose recover completely within 24-48 hours, as the body naturally eliminates the PEG. The recent study 6 emphasizes the importance of supportive care in the management of toxicological emergencies, including overdoses, which aligns with the approach to PEG overdose treatment.