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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Miralax Be Consumed On A Long Term Base For Constipation?

I was advised to take Miralax for constipation and have for the last 11 days; will it hurt to continue to take Miralax every morning? It has helped to make me regular and I would like to continue unless there is some reason why I should not take it every day for a long period of time. Also have been taking 1 stool softener at night and would also continue this if there are no long term effects.
Mon, 1 Sep 2014
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Internal Medicine Specialist 's  Response
Hi! The FDA guidelines on Miralax limit its usage to just 7 days. There is some evidence that long term use of Miralax might result in 'neuropsychiatric symptoms' like memory disorders, cognitive defects etc. However on the other hand there is a lot of internet testimony favoring its use over the long term with at least one scientific paper published in 2006 where it was found safe for use for up to a year.
My view is that you should give a serious try to non-drug therapy of constipation including fibre rich foods (like pears), plenty of fluids, exercise etc. before settling down for any kind of long term laxative use. In case you absolutely have to, please involve your healthcare provider in the decision making process. All the best!
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Can Miralax Be Consumed On A Long Term Base For Constipation?

Hi! The FDA guidelines on Miralax limit its usage to just 7 days. There is some evidence that long term use of Miralax might result in neuropsychiatric symptoms like memory disorders, cognitive defects etc. However on the other hand there is a lot of internet testimony favoring its use over the long term with at least one scientific paper published in 2006 where it was found safe for use for up to a year. My view is that you should give a serious try to non-drug therapy of constipation including fibre rich foods (like pears), plenty of fluids, exercise etc. before settling down for any kind of long term laxative use. In case you absolutely have to, please involve your healthcare provider in the decision making process. All the best!