From the Guidelines
Miralax is considered safe to use while breastfeeding, as the active ingredient is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream and very little passes into breast milk. When considering the safety of a drug during breastfeeding, the relative infant dose is a valuable guide, with a proportion < 10% being the preferred option 1. Although the provided study does not specifically mention Miralax, its principle can be applied to assess the safety of the medication. The standard dose for adults is 17 grams (about one capful) dissolved in 8 ounces of water once daily for constipation. Key points to consider when taking Miralax while breastfeeding include:
- Drinking plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration
- Monitoring for severe abdominal pain, bloating, or lack of improvement in constipation after 7 days
- Considering alternative methods to manage constipation, such as:
- Increasing dietary fiber
- Staying hydrated
- Regular physical activity It is essential to consult a healthcare provider if constipation persists or worsens, as they can provide personalized guidance and recommendations 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
IF PREGNANT OR BREAST-FEEDING, ask a health professional before use. The answer to whether you can take Miralax (polyethylene glycol) while breast-feeding is that you should ask a health professional before use 2.
From the Research
Breastfeeding and Miralax
- There are no direct studies on the use of Miralax while breastfeeding in the provided evidence.
- However, the studies focus on the use of polyethylene glycol (PEG), the active ingredient in Miralax, for treating constipation in various populations, including adults and children 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- These studies suggest that PEG is effective and safe for treating constipation, but they do not address its use during breastfeeding.
Polyethylene Glycol and Breastfeeding
- Although there is no direct evidence on the use of Miralax while breastfeeding, PEG is not absorbed in significant amounts from the gastrointestinal tract 6.
- This suggests that it is unlikely to pass into breast milk in significant amounts.
- However, without specific studies on the use of Miralax during breastfeeding, it is difficult to provide a definitive answer.
Precautions and Considerations
- As with any medication, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking Miralax while breastfeeding.
- They can provide guidance on the safe use of Miralax and monitor for any potential effects on the baby.
- It is also important to note that the studies provided focus on the treatment of constipation, and Miralax should only be used as directed and under medical supervision.