MiraLAX Over-the-Counter

If you have occasional constipation, you may benefit from MiraLAX^® (polyethylene glycol 3350). This laxative is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, meaning it is available without a prescription.

MiraLAX was originally available by prescription only. In fact, a generic version of MiraLAX is still available as a prescription medication. The prescription version is exactly the same as the over-the-counter version, but is more likely to be covered by insurance.

MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative. This means it works by drawing water into the colon, making the stool soft, and increasing the number of bowel movements. This product will usually cause a bowel movement in one to three days.

(For a closer look at this over-the-counter laxative, click MiraLAX. This Web resource also explains how this medication works, what to expect while taking it, and potential side effects.)

List of references (click here)

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

Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD