How macrogol works
Macrogol is an active ingredient from the group of laxatives with water-binding and laxative properties. The increased binding of water in the gastrointestinal tract causes on the one hand an increase in stool volume, which stimulates intestinal activity (peristalsis), and on the other hand it makes the stool softer.
Certain diseases (such as multiple sclerosis) can also cause constipation. Laxatives can then be used in the short term to facilitate defecation.
Macrogol, also known as polyethylene glycol, is a man-made substance that binds water. If macrogol is taken by mouth (perorally), the substance binds the water present in the intestine and prevents its absorption through the intestinal wall into the blood – it therefore remains in the intestinal contents (stool).
Absorption, degradation and excretion
The active ingredient is not absorbed from the intestine into the blood, but is excreted unchanged in the stool.
When is macrogol used?
Macrogol is a potent laxative and is used for bowel cleansing prior to bowel examinations and surgical procedures in the gastrointestinal tract. It is also used in the treatment of chronic constipation and problems with excretion of stool.
Long-term use is recommended only in special cases, such as paraplegics and patients taking strong painkillers (opioids). In such cases, however, it is advisable to use combination preparations containing salts (electrolytes) in addition to macrogol. In this way, an impending electrolyte deficiency due to accelerated bowel movements can be prevented to a certain extent.
How macrogol is used
Macrogol is mostly used as a powder to prepare a solution. The contents of a macrogol sachet are stirred into water and drunk.
For a complete bowel cleansing before medical interventions, usually between three and four liters of Macrogol solution must be drunk (according to the doctor’s instructions). For a mild laxative effect in case of temporary constipation, much smaller quantities are necessary.
Frequently, i.e. in one to ten percent of those treated, macrogol causes side effects such as gastrointestinal problems.
In the event of an overdose of the laxative, severe diarrhea is possible.
Always seek medical attention for constipation with acute symptoms (including pain, nausea, severe feeling of pressure).
What should be observed when taking macrogol?
Contraindications
Macrogol must not be used in:
- intestinal obstruction
- gastrointestinal bleeding
- severe inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
- hypersensitivity to the active substance or any other component of the preparation
Interactions
Age restriction
Finished preparations containing macrogol are approved for use from the age of one year, depending on the dosage. Elderly patients, patients with inflammatory bowel disease, and those with cardiac arrhythmias should use medications with macrogol with caution, preferably only under medical supervision.
Pregnancy and lactation
Macrogol is one of the laxatives of choice in pregnancy and lactation.
How to obtain medicines with macrogol
Medicines containing macrogol are available over-the-counter in pharmacies in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
