MOVICOL 13.8 g (Macrogol 3350 + Electrolytes)

Osmotic Laxative — Powder for Oral Solution — 20 Sachets

Medical Description

MOVICOL is an osmotic laxative containing macrogol 3350 in combination with electrolytes. It is used to treat chronic constipation in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older, and for the treatment of faecal impaction when appropriately diagnosed by a healthcare professional.

Macrogol 3350 retains water in the intestine, helping soften stools and increase stool volume to facilitate bowel movements. The added electrolytes help maintain the electrolyte balance of the solution.

Composition

Each sachet of standard MOVICOL 13.7 g powder for oral solution contains the following active ingredients:

The product is commonly described as 13.7 g or approximately 13.8 g per sachet, depending on the market and product labeling. The amounts above correspond to the standard formulation shown in the referenced product information; check the local package leaflet to confirm the exact formulation.

Indications and Benefits

• Chronic constipation: Helps relieve constipation and support regular bowel movements.
• Stool softening: Increases the water content of stools, making them softer and easier to pass.
• Faecal impaction: Can help clear severe constipation associated with retained stool in the rectum or colon when diagnosed by a healthcare professional.
• Electrolyte balance: Includes sodium and potassium salts to help maintain electrolyte balance during treatment.

Mechanism of Action

Macrogol 3350 acts as an osmotic laxative. It retains water in the intestinal lumen, increasing stool volume and softening the stool. This stimulates natural colonic contractions and facilitates defecation.

The accompanying electrolytes help reduce net losses or gains of sodium, potassium, and water across the intestinal mucosa when the product is used as directed.

Dosage and Directions for Use

For chronic constipation in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older:

• The usual dose is 1–3 sachets daily in divided doses, adjusted according to the individual's response.
• For each sachet, dissolve the powder in 125 mL of water and drink the prepared solution.
• Treatment usually does not exceed two weeks unless a healthcare professional recommends otherwise.

For faecal impaction:

• The usual adult regimen is 8 sachets daily, dissolved as directed and consumed over six hours.
• Treatment should generally not exceed three days and should be undertaken under medical guidance.

Important: The high-dose regimen for faecal impaction must not be used for ordinary constipation without professional assessment. MOVICOL is not recommended for children under 12 years in this formulation.

Possible Side Effects

Common or reported adverse effects include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort.
• Bloating and abdominal distension.
• Flatulence.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Diarrhea, which may improve after reducing the dose.
• Indigestion or anal discomfort.

Rare but potentially serious reactions include allergic reactions and electrolyte disturbances, including abnormal potassium levels.

Contraindications and Precautions

Do not use MOVICOL in patients with:

• Intestinal obstruction or perforation.
• Ileus.
• Severe inflammatory bowel disease, including severe Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Toxic megacolon.
• Hypersensitivity to any ingredient.

Additional precautions:

• Maintain adequate fluid intake throughout treatment.
• Consult a healthcare professional before use if you have heart disease, kidney problems, or are following a sodium-restricted diet.
• Oral absorption of some medicines may be temporarily reduced. Other oral medicines should generally not be taken during the hour before, during, or for one hour after MOVICOL, according to the product information.
• Seek medical advice if constipation persists, worsens, or is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or marked abdominal swelling.

Storage

• Store the unopened sachets according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Once prepared, keep the solution covered and refrigerated at 2–8°C if it is not consumed immediately.
• Discard prepared solution that has not been used within six hours.
• Keep out of reach of children.

References

1. Electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC), United Kingdom: MOVICOL 13.7 g — Summary of Product Characteristics. Official product information covering composition, indications, dosage, contraindications, interactions, and adverse effects.
2. Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA): Official OTC medicines list. Includes MOVICOL's formulation, approved indications, and package information.