Perspective Chapter: Polyethylene Glycol Use in Colonoscopy Preparation Versus Chronic Constipation

Abstract

Polyethylene glycol is a product with many pharmaceutical and industrial uses due to its hydrophilic nature. As a medication, it is part of a laxative class of drugs which is minimally absorbed in gastrointestinal tract increasing osmotic pressure resulting in softening of stools and increased bowel movements. There are certain FDA and non FDA-approved indications for its use. Its main use is for the treatment of constipation, fecal impaction, chronic constipation, and colonoscopy preparation. Its administration is elaborated according to different age groups and indications. Polyethylene glycol is over-the-counter medication as there is easy access to this drug, but as a health care provider, we need to emphasize the directions for its appropriate use with proper counseling regarding the onset of action as well as when to discontinue it which will yield improved patient results while minimizing adverse events.