Miralax (polyethylene Glycol)

Generic Name TradeName polyethylene MiraLax glycol Peak Onset 2-4 days Unknown

Clinical Medications Worksheets Classification Dose Laxatives, osmotics 1 packet Duration Unknown

Why is your patient getting this medication Constipation Mechanism of action and indications Acts as an osmotic agent, drawing water into the lumen of the GI tract. Indicated for evacuation of the GI tract without water or electrolyte imbalance.

Route PO

Time/frequenc y qd

Normal dosage range 17g. (One heaping teaspoon) in 8 oz. of water may be used for up to two weeks For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions N/A Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions GI obstruction, gastric retention, toxic colitis, Megacolon. Use cautiously in abdominal pain of uncertain cause, particularly if accompanied by fever. Common side effects Abdominal bloating, cramping, flatulence, nausea

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or Lab value alterations caused by medicine herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) None known for this drug Fludrocortisone, Hydrocortisone: The overuse or Be sure to teach the patient the following about this abuse of laxatives can cause significant loss of medication electrolytes and potentiate the risk of hypokalemia Inform patient that 2-4 days may be required to produce a associated with corticosteroid therapy. bowel movement. Should not be used for more than 2 Corticosteroids promote the retention of sodium and wk. Prolonged, frequent, or excessive use may result in water and the excretion of potassium. Although these electrolyte imbalance and laxative dependence. Advise effects are primarily associated with patient to notify health care professional if unusual mineralocorticoids like fludrocortisone, they may cramps, bloating, or diarrhea occurs also occur with higher dosages of glucocorticoids or adrenocorticotropic agents, particularly if given systemically for longer than brief periods. Demadex: The chronic use or abuse of laxatives may potentiate the pharmacologic effects of diuretics. Laxatives can cause significant losses of fluid and electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, magnesium and zinc, and these effects may be additive to those of diuretics. Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation (Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give this med? Check after giving Assess patient for abdominal distention, Diarrhea, obstruction. A soft, formed bowel presence of bowel sounds, and usual movement. pattern of bowel function.