Contents
Macrogols are polymers that help keep water in the body. They are used in adults and children over 8 years of age with prolonged constipation. How to use them and when to exercise caution.
Macrogols – action
Macrogols are polymers with a linear structure. The substance is a component of drugs with a laxative effect. Thanks to their structure and hydrogen action, they facilitate water retention in the body. Which then contributes to increasing its volume in the body and softening the stool. Changing the structure and increasing the volume of the stool stimulates the motility of the colon.
Macrogols also function under other names such as PEGi, polyethylene glycols, polymers of ethyl oxide. The most common active ingredient in laxatives is macrogol 4000. The effect of a substance on the body depends on its partial mass, which is equal to the number next to the name.
The substance is supposed to have a laxative effect and facilitate defecation. They can be taken alone or with electrolytes.
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Macrogoles – indications
Laxatives with macrogols are used in adults or children over 8 years of age. They are recommended for chronic constipation.
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Macrogols – contraindications
The substance should not be consumed if hypersensitivity to it has been found. Treatment with macrogols is also not recommended when the patient:
- has a gastrointestinal perforation or an increased risk of it,
- has obstructed intestines or is suspected of having them,
- suffers from abdominal pain for an unknown reason,
- suffers from inflammation of the intestines, including Leśniowski and Crohn’s disease,
- is diabetic,
- does not tolerate fructose,
- is allergic, especially when the laxative preparation contains polyethylene glycol or sulfur dioxide.
Macrogols – extreme caution
If you experience any undesirable effects after taking the drug, contact your doctor. It may be necessary to perform tests or reduce the dose of the drug.
Additionally, special care should be taken when:
- hypersensitivity appears, especially in severe course (medical supervision is necessary, most likely the drug will have to be discontinued),
- constipation is accompanied by fever, headache, or gas
- the patient does not follow a balanced diet – the substance is only an addition and not a replacement for balanced meals,
- diagnosed with dysfunction of the kidneys or liver,
- the patient is elderly,
- diarrhea occurs after the treatment.