What is MiraLAX?

MiraLAX is a popular laxative that is available without a prescription for short time use to relieve the symptoms of constipation in adults. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that adults use the drug for no longer than a one week period. The FDA approved the drug only for use in adults and not children under 17 years of age. Despite the uses approved by the FDA, MiraLAX is often purchased by parents to treat persistent constipation in their children. Additionally, an article in the New York Times reported that doctors and other medical professionals often recommend MiraLAX  for the treatment of chronic constipation in toddlers and infants.


What is the Active Ingredient in MiraLAX?
 

Polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) is the active ingredient in MiraLAX and similar laxatives on the market today. Even though it is widely believed that only trace amounts of PEG 3350 is absorbed by the intestines of an adult, there is little information as to how this ingredient is absorbed in the intestines of a child. Recently, the FDA sent a brief to researchers regarding the findings the FDA discovered while testing several batches of MiraLAX. It was discovered that in addition to PEG 3350, small amounts of two main antifreeze ingredients were present in the tested product. The FDA concluded that these toxins were produced by the manufacturing process.

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Parents and Victims Speak Out About Safety Concerns

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The Philly Voice reported that many parents have shared concerns about PEG 3350, the active ingredient in MiraLAX via a Parents Against MiraLAX (PEG 3350) Facebook group that has over 16,000 members. Also, a MiraLAX investigative report from Channel 6 Action News in Philadelphia, featured an interview with a now 19-year-old woman who had her own story to tell regarding the side effects she suffered as a child while taking MiraLAX.

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Reported Side Effects in Children

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Parents who have regularly used MiraLAX to treat chronic constipation in their children have reported the severe physical and mental side effects including:

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• Serious kidney problems

• Kidney failure

• Acidosis (acid in the blood that can lead to shock and even death)

• Tremors and Seizures

• Obsessive-Compulsive behavior

• Tics

• Mood Swings

• Depression

• Headaches

• Paranoia

• Rage

• Aggressive behavior

• Anxiety

• Phobias

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FDA Research Grant

 

In 2014, the FDA awarded a research grant to the Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia to determine if there is a link between the horrific side effects parents have reported after giving their children MiraLAX. The hospital has declined to share any information until the research has been completed.

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Alternative Constipation Treatments

 

Natural remedies to aid in remedying chronic constipation in those younger than 17 years of age include:

• Increasing water intake

• Eating more fiber including vegetables and fruits

• Staying active

• Limiting dairy

 

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