Is This MiraLAX?
Yes, if the product contains polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) as the active ingredient, it is MiraLAX or a generic equivalent. MiraLAX is the brand name for PEG 3350, an osmotic laxative FDA-approved for occasional constipation 1.
How to Verify You Have the Right Product
Check the product label for:
- Active ingredient: Must state "Polyethylene Glycol 3350"
- Dose per packet or scoop: Should be 17 grams
- Formulation: Unflavored, grit-free powder that dissolves in any beverage 1
MiraLAX comes in single-dose packets (17g each) or multi-dose bottles. Generic versions contain the same active ingredient and work identically.
Use in Toddlers with Functional Constipation
PEG 3350 is highly effective and safe for treating functional constipation in children, including toddlers, and is supported by extensive pediatric evidence 2, 3, 4, 5.
Efficacy in Children
Multiple high-quality pediatric studies demonstrate:
- Significant increase in bowel movements: Children treated with PEG 3350 showed marked improvement in stool frequency within the first week, with sustained benefits over months 4, 5
- Better than lactulose: PEG 3350 produces more bowel movements per week (7.9 vs 5.7) and causes fewer side effects, particularly less bloating and abdominal pain 5
- Long-term safety: Studies up to 52 weeks show no serious adverse events in children as young as 6 months 3, 6, 7
Dosing for Toddlers
Start with 0.7-1.5 g/kg/day, which can be adjusted based on response 4, 5. For a typical toddler:
- Mix the powder in 4-8 ounces of any beverage
- Can be given once daily or divided into doses
- Adjust dose to achieve soft, formed stools without diarrhea
- No need to adjust dose for weight gain during long-term use 7
Safety Profile
PEG 3350 demonstrates excellent safety in pediatric populations:
- No electrolyte disturbances: Safe for long-term use without monitoring electrolytes in healthy children 3, 6
- Minimal side effects: Most common are mild bloating or loose stools, which typically resolve after the first week 5, 8
- No serious adverse events reported in pediatric trials 6, 7
Important Considerations
- Duration of treatment: Functional constipation often requires months of treatment (average 18.6 months in one study) to prevent relapse 7
- Better palatability: PEG 4000 (another formulation) may taste better for children over 4 years, but PEG 3350 is equally effective and well-accepted in younger children 3, 6
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation: Gradual weaning prevents symptom recurrence
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Underdosing: Parents often use insufficient amounts; titrate to effect, not just by weight
- Premature discontinuation: Stopping too early leads to relapse; continue for several months after symptom resolution
- Inconsistent administration: Daily use is essential for sustained benefit
The evidence strongly supports PEG 3350 (MiraLAX) as first-line therapy for functional constipation in toddlers, with proven efficacy superior to other osmotic laxatives and an excellent safety profile for long-term use 3, 4, 5.