Macrogol (Polyethylene Glycol)
Brand names: Movicol, Laxido, CosmoCol
Macrogol (polyethylene glycol) is an osmotic laxative used for chronic constipation and faecal impaction, and it is also useful for opioid-induced constipation.
ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.
Clinical monograph
How it works
The inert polymer binds water osmotically within the bowel lumen, increasing stool volume and softening it to stimulate a bowel movement; it is not significantly absorbed.
Prescribing in practice
- Dissolve each dose in water as directed and maintain an adequate fluid intake.
- It is generally well tolerated.
- Bloating, abdominal cramps and flatulence can occur, particularly with the higher doses used for impaction.
Monitoring
Review bowel response and tolerability; with the high-dose impaction regimens, be alert to fluid and electrolyte balance, especially in frail or cardiorenally impaired patients.
Counselling the patient
- Mix each sachet with water before drinking it, and keep up your fluid intake.
- Some bloating or mild cramps are common, especially at first.
- It may take a day or two to work fully.
Evidence & guidelines
First-line osmotic laxative in NICE guidance on constipation, including for faecal impaction and opioid-induced constipation.
Reference: NICE CG99 (Constipation in Children 2010); NICE CKS Constipation; SPC Movicol; Cochrane Review — laxatives for chronic constipation; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.