MiraLAX for Constipation

Available without a prescription, MiraLAX^® (polyethylene glycol 3350) is a type of laxative approved to treat occasional constipation in adults age 17 and older. This laxative also has unapproved (or "off-label") uses, such as treating constipation in children and preparing the bowels for a colonoscopy procedure.

When used for constipation, MiraLAX works by drawing water into the colon, making the stool soft, and increasing the number of bowel movements. It will usually cause a bowel movement in one to three days.

(For more information on using this laxative for constipation relief, click MiraLAX Uses. This full-length article gives details on what constipation is, other possible ways to treat this problem, and whether this laxative is safe for older adults.)

List of references (click here)

Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH

Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD