From the Guidelines
You should consult with your healthcare provider before taking Miralax if you have diverticulitis, as it is generally not recommended during an active flare-up due to its potential to worsen inflammation or pain. Miralax (polyethylene glycol) works by drawing water into the colon to soften stool and increase bowel movements, which could potentially aggravate inflamed diverticular pouches during an active infection 1. During acute diverticulitis, your doctor will likely recommend bowel rest, antibiotics, and possibly a liquid or low-fiber diet temporarily.
Some key considerations for managing diverticulitis include:
- A high-fiber diet or fiber supplementation may be recommended in patients with a history of acute diverticulitis, as suggested by the American Gastroenterological Association institute guideline 1.
- A prudent dietary pattern, high in fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, and low in red meat and sweets, is associated with decreased risk of incident diverticulitis 1.
- Physical activity, particularly vigorous activity, decreases the risk of diverticulitis, while obesity, smoking, and regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increase the risk 1.
Once the acute infection has resolved and you're in the recovery phase or have diverticulosis (pouches without inflammation), Miralax may be appropriate to prevent constipation, which can trigger flare-ups. If prescribed, the typical adult dose is 17 grams (about 1 heaping tablespoon) dissolved in 8 ounces of water once daily. Always follow your doctor's specific guidance for your condition, as treatment needs to be tailored to the severity and stage of your diverticular disease 1.
From the Research
Diverticulitis and Miralax
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the use of Miralax in patients with diverticulitis.
- However, the studies discuss the management and treatment of diverticulitis, including the use of antibiotics, diet, and surgery 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is essential to note that Miralax is a laxative used to treat constipation, and its use in patients with diverticulitis may depend on the individual case and the severity of the disease.
- Patients with diverticulitis are often advised to follow a high-fiber diet to help manage their symptoms, and Miralax may be used to help soften stool and make it easier to pass 2, 3.
Treatment of Diverticulitis
- The treatment of diverticulitis depends on the severity of the disease and may include antibiotics, hospitalization, and surgery 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Uncomplicated diverticulitis may be managed with antibiotics and outpatient care, while complicated diverticulitis may require hospitalization and surgical intervention 2, 4, 5.
- The use of antibiotics in acute uncomplicated diverticulitis is still a topic of debate, and some studies suggest that they may not be necessary in all cases 5, 6.
Management of Diverticulitis
- The management of diverticulitis involves a combination of medical and surgical treatments, as well as lifestyle modifications such as a high-fiber diet and regular exercise 2, 3, 4.
- Patients with diverticulitis should be individualized and managed based on their specific needs and the severity of their disease 2, 4.
- Further research is needed to determine the best course of treatment for patients with diverticulitis, including the use of Miralax and other laxatives 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.