PEG 3350 Dosage: What You Need to Know About Uses, Side Effects, and Alternatives

When you need a reliable way to clean out your bowels before a colonoscopy or treat stubborn constipation, PEG 3350, a non-absorbable osmotic laxative made of polyethylene glycol. Also known as polyethylene glycol 3350, it works by pulling water into your intestines to soften stool and trigger a bowel movement—without irritating the gut lining. Unlike stimulant laxatives that force contractions, PEG 3350 lets your body do the work naturally, which is why doctors recommend it for kids, seniors, and people with sensitive digestive systems.

It’s not just for colonoscopies. Many people use it daily for chronic constipation, especially when fiber and hydration aren’t enough. The standard dose for adults is 17 grams (about one heaping tablespoon) mixed in 8 ounces of water, taken once a day. For bowel prep, you’ll typically take 4 liters total over a few hours, split into doses. Kids get lower doses based on weight—always follow your doctor’s instructions. It’s not addictive, doesn’t cause cramping like some laxatives, and stays in the gut without entering your bloodstream. But it’s not magic: if you’re dehydrated, it won’t work well. Drink plenty of fluids while taking it, or you might end up with nausea, bloating, or worse.

People often ask if there are better options. For quick relief, magnesium citrate or senna might work faster, but they can cause cramps. For long-term use, psyllium husk or lactulose are gentler, but they take longer. PEG 3350 strikes a balance: effective, safe, and predictable. That’s why it’s the go-to in hospitals and clinics worldwide. You’ll find it sold under names like MiraLAX, Glycolax, or as generic powder. The key isn’t the brand—it’s the dose and how you take it.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how PEG 3350 fits into broader treatment plans—from managing constipation in older adults to avoiding dehydration during bowel prep. You’ll also see how it compares to other laxatives, what to do if it doesn’t work, and how to use it safely alongside other meds like blood pressure drugs or antidepressants. No theory. No fluff. Just what actually works.