From the Guidelines
Miralax should not be given in cases of known or suspected bowel obstruction. This is because Miralax, an osmotic laxative, works by drawing water into the intestines to soften stool and increase bowel movements, which could worsen an obstruction by increasing pressure in an already blocked intestine 1. The management of bowel obstruction typically involves stopping oral intake, placing a nasogastric tube for decompression, providing IV fluids, and preparing for possible surgical intervention.
Some key points to consider in the management of constipation and bowel obstruction include:
- The use of bulk forming laxatives, such as unprocessed wheat bran, methylcellulose, ispaghula, and sterculia, which can be effective in managing constipation in the early stages of intestinal dysmotility 1.
- The role of stimulant laxatives, which increase intestinal motility and can cause abdominal cramp, and should be avoided in intestinal obstruction due to the risk of worsening the obstruction 1.
- The importance of confirming the absence of obstruction through clinical assessment and possibly imaging before initiating any laxative therapy, to prevent potential complications such as perforation, worsening pain, and vomiting.
In cases where constipation is suspected without obstruction, Miralax can be used at a standard dose of 17g (one capful) dissolved in 8 ounces of water daily, as it can help increase the amount of water in the large bowel and soften stool 1. However, it is crucial to prioritize the assessment and management of potential bowel obstruction to prevent morbidity, mortality, and to maintain quality of life.
From the Research
Bowel Obstruction and MiraLAX
- There are no research papers provided that directly discuss the use of MiraLAX in bowel obstruction.
- The studies provided focus on bowel preparation for colonoscopy using various laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), sodium picosulfate, and lactulose 2, 3, 4, 5.
- These studies compare the effectiveness and safety of different bowel preparation regimens, but do not address the specific topic of giving MiraLAX in bowel obstruction.
- MiraLAX is a brand name for polyethylene glycol 3350, which is used to treat constipation, but its use in bowel obstruction is not discussed in the provided studies.
Related Information
- The studies provided do discuss the use of PEG and other laxatives for bowel preparation, which may be relevant to understanding the effects of these medications on the bowel 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, the specific context of bowel obstruction and the use of MiraLAX is not addressed in these studies.
- Further research would be needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of using MiraLAX in bowel obstruction.