Polyethylene Glycol Over-the-Counter Availability
Yes, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 is available over the counter in the United States for the treatment of constipation. 1
OTC vs Prescription Formulations
The availability of PEG depends on the specific formulation and intended use:
Over-the-Counter Products
- PEG 3350 without electrolytes is widely available OTC in the United States for treatment of constipation 1
- Common OTC brand names include MiraLax and generic equivalents 2
- These formulations contain 17 g of PEG 3350 per dose 2
- OTC PEG is indicated for occasional constipation and chronic idiopathic constipation 1
Prescription-Only Products
- PEG-electrolyte lavage solutions (PEG-ELS) used for colonoscopy bowel preparation require a prescription 1
- Prescription formulations include high-volume (4 L) products such as Colyte, Gavilyte, Golytely, and Nulytely 1, 3
- Lower-volume (2 L) prescription formulations include MoviPrep (with ascorbate and sodium sulfate) 1
- These prescription products contain electrolytes to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance during large-volume bowel cleansing 1
Clinical Context
The distinction between OTC and prescription PEG is clinically important:
- OTC PEG 3350 is designed for daily use in managing constipation at doses of 17-34 g per day 4, 5
- Prescription PEG-ELS formulations are specifically designed for complete bowel evacuation before colonoscopy and contain balanced electrolytes to prevent dehydration and electrolyte disturbances 1
Safety Considerations
- OTC PEG 3350 is safe for long-term use in chronic constipation without significant electrolyte disturbances 4, 5
- The iso-osmotic nature of PEG makes it particularly safe for patients with renal insufficiency, congestive heart failure, and advanced liver disease when used appropriately 1, 3
- Prescription PEG-ELS formulations should be used with caution in patients with end-stage renal disease, preferring formulations without additives 3
Common Pitfall
Do not confuse OTC PEG 3350 (for constipation) with prescription PEG-ELS bowel preparation products (for colonoscopy). While both contain polyethylene glycol, they serve different purposes and have different formulations—OTC products lack the electrolyte balance needed for large-volume bowel cleansing 1.