MiraLAX (Polyethylene Glycol) Dosing for a 30-Day Supply
For adults and children 17 years and older, MiraLAX should be dosed as one 17g packet or capful once daily, which would require 30 packets or one 510g bottle for a 30-day supply. 1
Standard Dosing Instructions
- Adults and children 17 years of age and older should use one 17g dose of polyethylene glycol 3350 (MiraLAX) once daily 1
- The powder should be dissolved in 4-8 ounces of beverage (can be cold, hot, or room temperature) 1
- Ensure the powder is fully dissolved before drinking; do not drink if there are any clumps 1
- Do not combine with starch-based thickeners used for difficult swallowing 1
Duration Considerations
- The FDA label states not to use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor 1
- However, clinical studies have demonstrated safety and efficacy of daily MiraLAX use for up to 12 months in adults with chronic constipation 2
- Long-term studies show no evidence of tachyphylaxis (loss of effectiveness over time) with continued use 2
Efficacy Information
- MiraLAX typically shows greatest efficacy in the second week of treatment 3
- Clinical trials demonstrate that MiraLAX produces an average of 4.5 bowel movements per week by the second week of treatment, compared to 2.7 movements per week with placebo 3
- 80-88% of patients report successful treatment with MiraLAX when used as directed 2
Special Populations
- For children under 17 years of age, consult a doctor before use 1
- For elderly patients, standard adult dosing is appropriate and has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical studies 2
- 84-94% of elderly patients report successful treatment with the standard 17g daily dose 2
Dispensing for 30 Days
- For a 30-day supply, dispense either:
Safety Considerations
- MiraLAX has a favorable safety profile with primarily mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects 2
- No significant changes in electrolytes or blood chemistry have been observed in long-term studies, even in elderly patients 2
- Higher compliance rates have been observed with MiraLAX compared to other bowel preparation regimens 4
Remember that while the FDA label recommends not using for more than 7 days without medical supervision, clinical practice often includes longer-term use for chronic constipation under a physician's guidance 1, 2.