Movicol Oral Powder (13.125 gm+350.7 mg+178.5 mg+46.6 mg)/sachet

Movicol (Generic: Polyethylene Glycol 3350 + Electrolytes) is an osmotic laxative oral powder manufactured by Mundipharma (BD) Pvt. Ltd. Primarily prescribed for constipation relief in adults and children above 2 years, it softens hardened stools and treats fecal impaction. Each 13.125g sachet combines macrogol with balanced electrolytes to prevent dehydration during bowel movements.

Priced at ৳25.00 per sachet (10’s pack: ৳250.00), this oral powder requires mixing with water. Adults and children over 12 typically use 1-3 sachets daily for constipation, while fecal impaction treatment involves dissolving 8 sachets in 1L water within 6 hours. The solution must not be refrigerated and should be consumed promptly.

Mechanistically, Movicol increases intestinal water retention via osmotic action, enhancing stool volume and colonic motility. Its electrolyte composition (sodium, potassium) maintains fluid balance without systemic absorption. Side effects like diarrhea or abdominal discomfort are dose-dependent and reversible. Safe for pregnant/breastfeeding women, it shows negligible systemic exposure.

Key considerations include:

• Avoid concurrent use with antiepileptics due to reduced drug absorption
• Adjust doses if diarrhea occurs
• Do not use beyond 3 days for impaction without medical supervision

Adults & adolescents 12+:
– Constipation: 1 sachet daily in 125ml water
– Fecal impaction: 8 sachets in 1L water within 6 hours
– Renal impairment: No dose adjustment required
Do not store prepared solution beyond 6 hours. Follow oral powder administration guidelines.

Generally well tolerated. However side effects like allergic reactions, electrolyte disturbances particularly hyperkalaemia and hypokalaemia, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, peripheral edema may appear.

Pregnancy Category: Safe (negligible absorption). Compatible with breastfeeding. No evidence of fetal/infant risk in clinical studies.

Cardiac patients: Max 2 sachets/hour. Monitor electrolytes in prolonged use. Avoid continuous use beyond 1 week to prevent laxative dependence.

Pediatric (2-12y): Use under medical supervision. Geriatric: No dose adjustment. Renal/Hepatic impairment: Usable without precautions.

Severe pain or distention can be treated by nasogastric aspiration. Extensive fluid loss by diarrhea or vomiting may require correction of electrolyte disturbances.