GaviLAX

Name: GaviLAX

What is GaviLAX (polyethylene glycol 3350)?

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a laxative solution that increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about GaviLAX (polyethylene glycol 3350)?

You should not use this medicine if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from polyethylene glycol 3350.

Do not use polyethylene glycol 3350 more than once per day. Call your doctor if you are still constipated or irregular after using this medication for 7 days in a row.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking GaviLAX (polyethylene glycol 3350)?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol, or if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from polyethylene glycol 3350.

People with eating disorders (such as anorexia or bulimia) should not use this medication without the advice of a doctor.

To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain;

  • ulcerative colitis;

  • irritable bowel syndrome;

  • kidney disease; or

  • if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted 2 weeks or longer.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether polyethylene glycol 3350 will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether polyethylene glycol 3350 passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

GaviLAX (polyethylene glycol 3350) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • severe or bloody diarrhea;

  • rectal bleeding;

  • blood in your stools; or

  • severe and worsening stomach pain.

Common side effects may include:

  • bloating, gas, upset stomach;

  • dizziness; or

  • increased sweating.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect GaviLAX (polyethylene glycol 3350)?

Other drugs may interact with polyethylene glycol 3350, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

For the Consumer

Applies to polyethylene glycol 3350: oral packet, oral powder

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Dialysis

Data not available

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