MiraLAX Has Been Associated With Neuropsychiatric Problems in Children
Written by: Lauren Schwab, Legal Assistant
Law Offices of Thomas J. Lamb, P.A.
For the past few years, we have reported on the popular over-the-counter constipation drug MiraLAX, and its adverse side effects in children. While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to fund research for a potential connection between the two, few advancements have been made in the research.
MiraLAX Overview
While many pediatricians have recommended parents use MiraLAX to treat chronic childhood constipation, the drug has yet to be approved by the FDA for use in children. However, the drug quickly became a topic of discussion amongst parents, as many parents report behavioral and neurological issues in their children that they claim stem from the child's use of MiraLAX.
MiraLAX is typically mixed with eight ounces of water and is meant to be used one to two times daily to treat constipation. Some individuals notice common side effects, such as loose bowel movements, bloating or nausea, although these side effects typically improve with a dosing adjustment.
Boston Children's Hospital Makes Recommendations to MiraLAX Alternatives
The Boston Children's Hospital offers alternatives to MiraLAX, claiming the drug is simply one of the many options when treating chronic childhood constipation. According to the hospital, lifestyle modification should be the first form of treatment. This includes increased hydration, high-fiber diets and regular exercise.
According to the Boston Children's Hospital's page entitled, "Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition - MiraLAX and Other Options for Treating Constipation", other medication alternatives to MiraLAX are also available for constipation treatment:
When lifestyle modifications have been exhausted, medication options for treating constipation include:
- MiraLAX
- lactulose (a non-absorbable sugar)
- magnesium hydroxide (aka Milk of Magnesia)
- senna (an herbal extract that stimulates bowel motions)
- mineral oil
The hospital stresses these products should only be used if recommended by a trained healthcare professional.
Additional Information and Sources
While few advancements have been made in terms of PEG 3350 research in relation to MiraLAX use by children, parents and other family members may find comfort in joining the Facebook group "Parents Against MiraLAX". Additionally, you may want to consider referring to our February 2020 article, "MiraLAX: The Quest to Get Answers from the FDA" for more information of past PEG 3350 studies.
As always, we will continue to monitor the issues surrounding MiraLAX and will provide you with any new or relevant information. Please feel free to share any relevant information with us, as well.
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