Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder for Oral Solution

A white powder for reconstitution. Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF (Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder For Oral Solution) is a synthetic polyglycol having an average molecular weight of 3350. The actual molecular weight is not less than 90.0 percent and not greater than 110.0 percent of the nominal value. The chemical formula is HO(C₂H₄O)_nH in which n represents the average number of oxyethylene groups. Below 55°C it is a free flowing white powder freely soluble in water. Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF is an osmotic agent for the treatment of constipation.

In one study, patients with less than 3 bowel movements per week were randomized to Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF, 17 grams, or placebo for 14 days. An increase in bowel movement frequency was observed for both treatment groups during the first week of treatment. Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF was statistically superior to placebo during the second week of treatment. In another study, patients with 3 bowel movements or less per week and/or less than 300 grams of stool per week were randomized to 2 dose levels of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF or placebo for 10 days each. Success was defined by an increase in both bowel movement frequency and daily stool weight. For both parameters, superiority of the 17 gram dose of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF over placebo was demonstrated.

For the treatment of occasional constipation. This product should be used for 2 weeks or less or as directed by a physician.

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected bowel obstruction and patients known to be allergic to polyethylene glycol.

Patients with symptoms suggestive of bowel obstruction (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or distention) should be evaluated to rule out this condition before initiating Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF therapy.

Nausea, abdominal bloating, cramping and flatulence may occur. High doses may produce diarrhea and excessive stool frequency, particularly in elderly nursing home patients. Patients taking other medications containing polyethylene glycol have occasionally developed urticaria suggestive of an allergic reaction.

There have been no reports of accidental overdosage. In the event of overdosage, diarrhea would be the expected major event. If an overdose of drug occurred without concomitant ingestion of fluid, dehydration due to diarrhea may result. Medication should be terminated and free water administered. The oral LD₅₀ is > 50 gm/kg in mice, rats and rabbits.

The usual dose is 17 grams (about 1 heaping tablespoon) of powder per day (or as directed by physician) in 4 to 8 ounces of water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. Each bottle of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF is supplied with a dosing cup marked to contain 17 grams of laxative powder when filled to the indicated line. Two to 4 days (48 to 96 hours) may be required to produce a bowel movement.

In powdered form, for oral administration after dissolution in water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF (Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder for Oral Solution) is available in two package sizes: a 500 cc container of 255 grams of laxative powder and a 950 cc container of 527 grams of laxative powder.

NDC 51991-457-58 Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF 255g

NDC 51991-457-57 Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF 527g

The dosing cup supplied with each bottle is marked with a measuring line and may be used to measure a single Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF dose of 17 grams (about 1 heaping tablespoonful).

Rx only

Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.

Distributed by:
Breckenridge Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Boca Raton, FL 33487

Manufactured by:
Nexgen Pharma, Inc.
Irvine, CA 92614

6920, 6921  Rev 11/08

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF (Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder for Oral Solution) is a prescription only laxative which has been prescribed by your physician to treat constipation. This product should only be used by the person for whom it was prescribed.

How to take

The dose is 17 grams each day or as directed by physician. It should always be taken by mouth. Measure the dose using the dosing cup (or use one heaping tablespoon of powder), stir and dissolve in a glass (4 to 8 oz) of water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea. Taking more than the prescribed dose may cause loss of fluid due to severe diarrhea.

How will it work

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF softens the stool and increases the frequency of bowel movements by retaining water in the stool. Your first bowel movement will usually happen in two to four days, although results may vary for individual patients.

How long should I take it

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF achieves its best results when used between one and two weeks. You may discontinue taking the drug after you had several satisfactory bowel movements. Should unusual cramps, bloating, or diarrhea occur, consult your physician. Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF is intended for up to a two week course of therapy. You should not use for a longer time unless directed by your physician.

Next Steps

After successfully completing Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF therapy (usually between one and two weeks), please discuss with your physician lifestyle changes which may produce more regular bowel habits (adequate dietary and fluid intake, regular exercise).

Who should NOT take Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF should not be used by children. It should not be used by pregnant women unless prescribed by a physician.

Side Effects/Drug Reactions

Occasionally, Polyethylene Glycol 3350 NF may cause nausea, stomach fullness, cramping, diarrhea and/or gas. Do not take if you have symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or distention, which may be due to bowel obstruction. On rare occasions hives and skin rashes have been reported which are suggestive of an allergic reaction. If you get an allergic reaction you should discontinue the medication and call your physician. If you are allergic to polyethylene glycol, do not use this drug.

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