Polyethylene Glycols (PEG)
Polyethylene Glycols (PEG) are osmotic laxatives used to treat constipation and prepare the bowel for medical procedures such as colonoscopy.
PEG-based laxatives treat constipation and prepare the bowel for procedures by drawing water into the intestines to soften stool.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A06AD15
- RxNorm
- 8516
- Generic
- Polyethylene Glycols
- Class
- atc-a06
- Brands
- Hypotears
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- nasal, ophthalmic
- Forms
- gel, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
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Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of occasional constipation; bowel cleansing before diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy or surgery; management of chronic constipation when other treatments have failed.
PEG acts as an osmotic laxative by retaining water in the bowel lumen through its molecular structure. This increases intestinal water content, softening stools and promoting peristalsis, which leads to bowel evacuation typically within 1-3 days for constipation relief.
Take with adequate fluids as directed. May cause bloating, gas, cramping, or nausea initially. Not typically recommended for long-term use without medical supervision. Use cautiously in patients with kidney disease, heart conditions, or those taking other medications. Do not use if you have bowel obstruction, severe ulcerative colitis, or perforation.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy