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Question:

Is Miralax better than milk of magnesia for treating constipation?

Answer:

Yes
MedHead Confidence Score: 3
Amount Saved: $25 medical research post
Med-O-Meter

3

MedHead Message:

It appears that Miralax and Milk of magnesia both work about the same as far as moving bowels, but Miralax appears to be better tolerated and causes fewer side effects. The same holds true in the pediatric population. More people continued using Miralax over time due to fewer side effects. For children, use about 1/2 the dose as the adult dose, once daily, taken in water.

References:

1. Loening-Baucke, V et. al. A Randomized, Prospective, Comparison Study of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Without Electrolytes and Milk of Magnesia for Children With Constipation and Fecal Incontinence. Pediatrics Aug 2006, 118 (2) 528-535; DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006-0220 2. Gordon M, MacDonald JK, Parker CE, Akobeng AK, Thomas AG. Osmotic and stimulant laxatives for the management of childhood constipation. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2016, Issue 8. Art. No.: CD009118. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD009118.pub3. 3. https://www.seattlechildrens.org/pdf/PE1303.pdf

 

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