Cremalax (Polyethylene Glycol 3350)
Compared with: Blackmores Conceive Well Gold 28 Tablets + 28 Capsules

Cremalax (Polyethylene Glycol 3350, 17 g sachets) is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the colon to soften stool and stimulate bowel movements. One sachet dissolved in 4–8 oz of fluid once daily produces relief of occasional constipation within 1–3 days with a well‑tolerated safety profile
Mayo Clinic

Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (Macrogol 3350) – 17 g per sachet or capful of powder

Other Popular and Common Names
PEG 3350
Macrogol 3350
MiraLAX® (US brand)
Movicol® (EU brand)

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is an osmotic laxative. It is a non‑absorbable, water‑soluble polymer that holds water in the stool by osmosis. Increased intraluminal water content softens stool, increases stool volume, and stimulates peristalsis without causing significant electrolyte shifts

Occasional Constipation: Adults and adolescents ≥17 years for short‑term relief.

Chronic Functional Constipation: Under medical supervision for up to 14 days.

Paediatric Constipation (Off‑Label): Doctors may recommend for ≥2 years with adjusted dosing.

Bowel Preparation Adjunct (Off‑Label): Low‑dose regimens in combination with stimulants under specialist guidance.
Population Dose Frequency & Duration
Adults & ≥17 years 17 g (one sachet/capful) Once daily, dissolved in 4–8 oz fluid, up to 7 days
Mayo Clinic
Children 2–16 years (Off‑Label) 0.5 g/kg/day (max 17 g) Once daily; medical supervision; up to 14 days
Elderly 17 g once daily Use with caution; ensure adequate hydration

Administration: Fill measuring cap to indicated line (17 g), stir in any cold, hot, or room‑temperature beverage until fully dissolved, then drink immediately.
Drugs.com

Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered; if close to the next dose, skip—do not double.

Formulation: Powder for oral solution

Presentations: 17 g sachets, bulk bottles with measuring cap

Route: Oral

Legal Status: Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) laxative

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Pregnancy Category B1 (Australia) – no teratogenic effects; minimal systemic absorption. Safe during breastfeeding.
Wikipedia

Pediatric: Use in children ≥2 years under medical advice; formulations sugar‑free option for diabetic children.

Renal/Hepatic Impairment: No dose adjustment required; monitor fluid balance in severe renal disease.

Hydration: Ensure adequate oral fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

Side‑Effects
Common (≤5 %):

Bloating, abdominal distension

Cramping, flatulence

Nausea
WebMD

Electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia, rare)

Allergic reactions (rash, pruritus)

Increased thirst; headache
Contraindications: Bowel obstruction, ileus, acute surgical abdomen, inflammatory bowel disease exacerbation, toxic colitis, toxic megacolon.

Electrolyte Monitoring: For prolonged use (>14 days) or in at‑risk patients (elderly, renal impairment).

Co‑Administration: Avoid with starch‑based thickeners; ensure complete dissolution to prevent swallowing difficulties.

Gastrointestinal Conditions: Use with caution in severe gastrointestinal disorders; seek physician advice.

Therapeutic Class: Laxative

Pharmacologic Class: Osmotic Laxative (Macrogol 3350)

Legal Category: OTC Medication

Minimal Interaction Potential: PEG 3350 is not systemically absorbed; negligible CYP or P‑gp involvement.

Absorption Effects: May accelerate intestinal transit, potentially reducing absorption of concomitant oral medications; administer other drugs ≥2 hours before or after.

Mayo Clinic Monograph: 17 g daily produced effective relief in 68 % of patients versus 31 % placebo at 2 weeks (P < 0.001)
Mayo Clinic
Medical News Today

IBS‑C Adjunct: PEG 3350 improved stool frequency and consistency in constipation‑predominant IBS with similar safety to placebo
PDR.net

FAQs – Cremalax (Polyethylene Glycol 3350)
Q1. How quickly will Cremalax work?
A: Bowel movements typically occur within 1–3 days of first dose
Cleveland Clinic
Medical News Today

Q2. Can I take Cremalax with food?
A: Yes. It can be mixed with any beverage; food does not affect efficacy.

Q3. What if I miss a dose?
A: Take as soon as you remember unless it’s near the next dose; do not double doses.

Q4. Is long‑term use safe?
A: Generally safe up to 14 days; for chronic constipation, use under medical supervision and monitor electrolytes.

Q5. Can children use Cremalax?
A: Off‑label for children ≥2 years at weight‑based dose; consult a paediatrician.

Q6. Does Cremalax cause dehydration?
A: Rare—maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

Q7. Can Cremalax interfere with other medications?
A: It may reduce absorption of oral drugs; space administration ≥2 hours apart.

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