Side Effects of polyethylene glycol 3350: A Synthesis of Findings from 15 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG-3350) is commonly used to clear the bowels before colonoscopies, primarily in adults. Its safety in children has also been established. 15 . PEG-3350 is believed to be a valuable treatment option for poisoning with slow-release medications, swallowed packaged substances, enteric-coated medications, medications that don't bind to charcoal, and heavy metals in children. 1 . Due to its high molecular weight, PEG-3350 has minimal absorption from the intestinal lining (0.2%), suggesting a reduced likelihood of side effects. 1 . However, several studies indicate that allergic reactions can occur, although rarely. 1 . PEG-3350 is also used to treat constipation. 15 . Research suggests that PEG-3350 is more effective in treating constipation compared to a mixture of acacia fiber, psyllium fiber, and fructose. 11 . Conversely, some research indicates that PEG-3350 might slow down stomach emptying. 6 . One study found that a one-day bowel preparation with PEG-3350 is equally effective and safe as a three-day preparation for colonoscopy in children. 10 . Another study observed that PEG-3350 is safer and more effective than sulfate-free electrolyte lavage solutions for colonoscopy preparation. 14 .

Reasons for Side Effects

PEG-3350, due to its high molecular weight, has minimal absorption from the intestinal lining (0.2%), making side effects less common. 1 . However, PEG-3350 works by drawing water into the intestines and softening stool. This mechanism can lead to side effects like diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, particularly with excessive intake or in sensitive individuals. 6 . Additionally, rare allergic reactions to PEG-3350 have been reported. 1 .

Common Side Effects

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is the most commonly observed side effect of PEG-3350. 12 . As PEG-3350 absorbs water in the intestines and softens stool, it can cause looser stools and potentially diarrhea. The likelihood of diarrhea increases with higher doses of PEG-3350. 12 .

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is another side effect associated with PEG-3350. 12 . This pain is thought to occur due to the stimulating effect of PEG-3350 on intestinal movement. Additionally, the absorption of water and softening of stool by PEG-3350 can cause excessive expansion of the intestines, potentially leading to abdominal pain. 12 .

Nausea, Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are also reported as side effects of PEG-3350. 6 . These side effects are believed to arise because PEG-3350 slows down stomach emptying. 6 . Higher doses of PEG-3350 can increase the likelihood of experiencing nausea and vomiting. 12 .

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to PEG-3350 are rare but have been reported. 1 . These reactions can cause various symptoms such as skin rash, itching, and difficulty breathing. 1 . While uncommon, allergic reactions to PEG-3350 can be serious. 1 . It is crucial to inform your doctor about any history of allergies before taking PEG-3350. 1 .

Measures to Manage Side Effects

Diarrhea

If you experience severe diarrhea, reduce your dose of PEG-3350 or discontinue use. 12 . It's also important to stay adequately hydrated. 12 . Consult your doctor if diarrhea persists. 12 .

Abdominal Pain

If you experience severe abdominal pain, reduce your dose of PEG-3350 or discontinue use. 12 . Applying a warm towel or heating pad to your abdomen may provide relief. 12 . Consult your doctor if abdominal pain persists. 12 .

Nausea, Vomiting

If you experience severe nausea or vomiting, reduce your dose of PEG-3350 or discontinue use. 6 . Staying hydrated is essential. 6 . Consult your doctor if nausea or vomiting persists. 6 .

Allergic Reactions

If you experience an allergic reaction, stop taking PEG-3350 and consult your doctor immediately. 1 .

Comparison between Studies

Similarities between Studies

Numerous studies have concluded that PEG-3350 is safe and effective for colonoscopy preparation. 14 . Research also indicates that PEG-3350 is effective in treating constipation. 15 .

Differences between Studies

Variations in research findings regarding dosage, administration methods, and the frequency of side effects have been observed. 12 . Furthermore, studies have produced mixed results on whether PEG-3350 slows down stomach emptying. 6 .

Precautions for Practical Application

PEG-3350 is generally considered safe for use in treating constipation and preparing for colonoscopy. 15 . However, there is a potential for rare allergic reactions to PEG-3350. 1 . Therefore, it's crucial to inform your doctor about any history of allergies before taking PEG-3350. 1 . Additionally, PEG-3350 can cause side effects such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. 6 . If you have concerns about these side effects, consider avoiding PEG-3350 or consult your doctor. 6 .

Limitations of Current Research

Research on the side effects of PEG-3350 is still inadequate. 12 . Further research is necessary, particularly regarding allergic reactions to PEG-3350 and its impact on gastric emptying. 6 .

Future Research Directions

More research on the side effects of PEG-3350 is needed. 12 . Large-scale clinical trials should be conducted, specifically focusing on allergic reactions to PEG-3350 and its effects on gastric emptying. 6 . It is also important to develop new methods for mitigating the side effects of PEG-3350. 12 .

Conclusion

PEG-3350 is generally a safe medication for treating constipation and preparing for colonoscopy. 15 . However, there is a possibility of rare allergic reactions to PEG-3350. 1 . It can also cause side effects such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. 6 . Before taking PEG-3350, it's essential to inform your doctor about any history of allergies. 1 . When taking PEG-3350, be aware of potential side effects and consult your doctor if needed. 6 .

Literature analysis of 15 papers
Positive Content
13
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
1
Article Type
8
0
0
2
15
1.

Urticaria as a Rare Side Effect of Polyethylene Glycol-3350 in a Child: Case Report.

Author: Sari GökaySinem, ÇelikTuğçe, Yusuf SariMehmet, EkinciFaruk, Dinçer YildizdaşRiza, Levent YilmazHayri

Bowel irrigation
Allergic reaction

This case report describes a 3-year-old girl who ingested part of an alkali battery and was treated with oral polyethylene glycol electrolyte (PEG-3350) solution for bowel irrigation. While PEG-3350 is generally considered safe for bowel emptying, the patient developed allergic reactions, suggesting a rare adverse effect. This is the first reported case of allergic reaction to PEG-3350 in a pediatric patient.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

2.

Possible GoLytely-Associated Cardiac Arrest: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Author: MoYoonsun, GandhiShiv, OrsiniJose

GoLytely administration
Cardiac arrest

This case report describes a possible association between GoLytely administration and sudden cardiac arrest. Clinicians need to be mindful of potential life-threatening adverse events following GoLytely administration and monitor patients closely during and after administration.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

3.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of polyethylene glycol effects on fasting and postprandial rectal sensitivity and symptoms in hypersensitive constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.

Author: AwadR A, CamachoS

Improved IBS-C
Improved bowel movements
Post healing hypersensitivity
Visceral hypersensitivity

Polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG) and placebo were clinically useful in patients with IBS-C, an effect that cannot be explained by changes in rectal tone and sensation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

4.

A randomized, prospective, comparison study of polyethylene glycol 3350 without electrolytes and milk of magnesia for children with constipation and fecal incontinence.

Author: Loening-BauckeVera, PashankarDinesh S

Improved constipation
Improved fecal incontinence
Allergic reaction

Polyethylene glycol and milk of magnesia were equally effective in the long-term treatment of children with chronic constipation and fecal incontinence. Polyethylene glycol was safe and was better accepted by the children than milk of magnesia.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

An assessment of the ocular safety of inactive excipients following sub-tenon injection in rabbits.

Author: YounisHusam S, ShawerMohannad, PalacioKimberly, GukasyanHovhannes J, StevensGreg J, EveringWinston

Ocular tolerability
Corneal opacity
Ocular irritation

The safety of inactive excipients following sub-Tenon injection varied.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

6.

Small doses of the unabsorbable substance polyethylene glycol 3350 accelerate oro-caecal transit, but slow gastric emptying in healthy subjects.

Author: CoremansG, VosR, MargaritisV, GhoosY, JanssensJ

Accelerate colonic transit
Increase stool frequency
Nausea
Vomiting

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a laxative effective for patients with normal and slow colonic transit. While generally safe, it may cause nausea and vomiting. This study aims to investigate its effect on upper gut transit.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

7.

Prospective, randomized, endoscopic-blinded trial comparing precolonoscopy bowel cleansing methods.

Author: CohenS M, WexnerS D, BinderowS R, NoguerasJ J, DanielN, EhrenpreisE D, JensenJ, BonnerG F, RudermanW B

Improved bowel cleansing
Increased patient satisfaction
Hyperphosphatemia

Oral sodium phosphate was more effective in colon cleansing and was preferred by patients compared with polyethylene glycol solutions. However, it was associated with asymptomatic hyperphosphatemia.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

A prospective randomized study with mineral oil and oral lavage solution for treatment of faecal impaction in children.

Author: ToliaV, LinC H, ElitsurY

Effective treatment
Poor compliance
Vomiting

Colyte, a lavage solution containing polyethylene glycol-3350, was more effective in treating faecal impaction than mineral oil, leading to more frequent bowel movements and effective clearance of abdominal and rectal lumps. However, Colyte was associated with vomiting and lower compliance.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

10.

1-day bowel preparation with polyethylene glycol 3350 is as effective and safe as a 3-day preparation for colonoscopy in children.

Author: SorserSerge A, KonankiVenkata, HurshAlice, HagglundKaren, LyonsHernando

Bowel preparation

This study compared the efficacy and safety of a one-day bowel preparation with Miralax® with that of a three-day preparation for colonoscopy in children.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

11.

A randomized, prospective, comparison study of a mixture of acacia fiber, psyllium fiber, and fructose vs polyethylene glycol 3350 with electrolytes for the treatment of chronic functional constipation in childhood.

Author: QuitadamoPaolo, CoccorulloPaola, GiannettiEleonora, RomanoClaudio, ChiaroAndrea, CampanozziAngelo, PoliEmanuela, CucchiaraSalvatore, Di NardoGiovanni, StaianoAnnamaria

Constipation treatment

A mixture of acacia fiber, psyllium fiber, and fructose (AFPFF) was found to be as effective as polyethylene glycol 3350 combined with electrolytes (PEG+E) in treating children with chronic functional constipation (CFC). AFPFF was also found to be safe and effective in treating children with CFC.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

12.

Whole-bowel irrigation for mechanical colon cleansing.

Author: MichaelK A, DiPiroJ T, BowdenT A, TedescoF J

Bowel cleansing
Gastrointestinal side effects

Whole-bowel irrigation (WBI) is an effective method for mechanical bowel cleansing before colonoscopy and surgery. Solutions containing polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG) are preferred for their safety and efficacy.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

13.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 based colon cleaning protocol: 2 d vs 4 d head to head comparison.

Author: ElitsurRotem, ButcherLisa, VickiLund, ElitsurYoram

Shorter preparation time
Higher stool frequency
No significant difference

A 2-day PEG 3350 protocol for colon cleansing was superior to a 4-day protocol for its shorter time, but no difference in adequacy was observed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

14.

Comparison of reduced volume versus four liters sulfate-free electrolyte lavage solutions for colonoscopy colon cleansing.

Author: DiPalmaJack A, WolffBruce G, MeagherAlan, ClevelandMark vB

Improved patient tolerance

This study compared a reduced volume lavage regimen with standard 4 L SF-ELS lavage for safety and efficacy in colonoscopy preparation. The researchers found that the reduced volume regimen was as effective and well-tolerated as the standard 4 L regimen.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

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