Can You Take MiraLAXⓇ Every Day? Safety and Potential Risks Explained

MiraLAX^Ⓡ is an over-the-counter laxative that has been used for decades to help treat occasional constipation. However, in some cases, it may also be used to manage long-term constipation issues when done under medical supervision. But can you take MiraLAX^Ⓡ every day without facing consequences? For how long can you safely take this drug before needing to stop?

In this article, we will answer these and more questions regarding the use of MiraLAX^Ⓡ and its potential side effects.

What is MiraLAXⓇ?

MiraLAX^Ⓡ is an over-the-counter medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat occasional constipation in adults.

It is sometimes also used to treat constipation in children over two years of age and in combination with electrolytes for bowel preparation before colonoscopy procedures. However, this should be done only under strict medical supervision.

How does MiraLAXⓇ work?

MiraLAX^Ⓡ is an osmotic laxative. Its active ingredient is a compound known as polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350.

Osmotic laxatives have poor intestinal absorption and work by increasing water retention in the colon (part of the large intestine) in order to soften the stools.

In addition to being a stool softener, PEG 3350 also stimulates the colon to contract due to the increased pressure caused by water retention, which can induce a bowel movement and further help the stools pass more easily.

Can you take MiraLAXⓇ every day?

According to the manufacturer’s instructions, you can take MiraLAX^Ⓡ for constipation once a day for up to seven days. A bowel movement should occur after one to three days of using the medication.

Taking MiraLAX^Ⓡ for more than seven days is generally not recommended unless it is advised by your doctor and done under strict medical supervision.

When not prescribed by a doctor, MiraLAX^Ⓡ's long-term use might potentially mask symptoms and delay treatment for some underlying health problems that otherwise could have been promptly addressed.

For instance, some diseases and conditions that have been associated with constipation include hypothyroidism, diabetes, celiac disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and tumors, among others.

Additionally, even though MiraLAX^Ⓡ is an FDA-approved over-the-counter medication generally considered safe and well-tolerated, it is not completely exempt from side effects, which we will discuss in detail later in this article.

Who should not take MiraLAXⓇ?

People allergic to polyethylene glycol should not use MiraLAX^Ⓡ.

Additionally, MiraLAX^Ⓡ might not be suitable for people with chronic (long-term) kidney disease and for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, so if you fall into one of these circumstances, always consult with a healthcare practitioner before using this medication.

Furthermore, people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or known or suspected bowel obstruction should also refrain from taking this medication.

Lastly, MiraLAX^Ⓡ could interact with certain medications, so make sure to speak to your doctor before using MiraLAX^Ⓡ if you are taking any other type of drugs.

Potential side effects of daily use

When following the dosage instructions, there is little risk of serious adverse events. For adults, the daily MiraLAX^Ⓡ dosage is usually 17 grams dissolved in 8 ounces of liquid.

Nevertheless, some mild or moderate side effects may still occur in some people, including abdominal cramping, bloating, loose stools, nausea, and flatulence.

Furthermore, there have been some reports of electrolyte imbalances when using large amounts of MiraLAX^Ⓡ for colonoscopy preparation.

On the other hand, there have been some anecdotal experiences of neuropsychiatric disorders caused by the use of MiraLAX^Ⓡ in children, including seizures, anxiety, and mood swings, among others, as well as increased risk of dementia in adults. However, there is not enough data to confirm whether these symptoms are, in fact, MiraLAX^Ⓡ's side effects.

Alternatives to MiraLAXⓇ for daily use

Constipation can often be prevented through a combination of diet and lifestyle changes aimed at improving bowel function, regulating digestion, and promoting good colon health.

Here are several strategies that can be used to help prevent and manage constipation:

• Increase fiber intake. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, whole grains, and legumes.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking at least eight cups of water per day can help soften stools.
• Exercise frequently. Regular physical activity helps stimulate the digestive system, promoting more frequent bowel movements.
• Drink laxative teas. Some herbal teas, like senna tea or peppermint tea, might be effective in stimulating a bowel movement.
• Don't ignore the urge to poop. When you feel the need to have a bowel movement, try to act on it. Delaying it may make constipation worse.
• Reduce stress. Chronic stress may contribute to the onset of constipation, so stress management techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness may help manage this condition.

If none of the strategies mentioned above work, a doctor can recommend using other types of laxatives, such as bulk-forming laxatives, stimulant laxatives, or other kinds of medications.

Bottom line

Overall, MiraLAX^Ⓡ is considered a safe and well-tolerated medication that can be used to help alleviate short-term constipation in adults when combined with adequate fiber intake, proper hydration, and regular physical activity.

However, precaution must be taken with certain populations, such as children and pregnant or breastfeeding women, and when constipation lasts for more than one week. In these cases, a visit to the doctor is warranted.