POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used for occasional constipation.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 works by pulling water into your intestines and making your poop softer and easier to pass.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is widely used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cosmetics, and industrial formulations because of its excellent water solubility, low toxicity, and chemical stability.

CAS Number: 25322-68-3
EC (EINECS) Number: 500-038-2
Chemical Class: Polyether / polyethylene glycol polymer
Molecular Formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)nOH
Average Molecular Weight: ~3350 g/mol

SYNONYMS:
Poly(ethylene glycol), Poly(ethylene glycol), Polyglycol, Macrogol, Polyethylene oxide, Polyoxy ethylene, PEG 3350, PEG, Polyethylene Glycol 3350, PEG 3350, Macrogol 3350, Poly(ethylene glycol), Polyethylene oxide, Polyoxyethylene, Polyglycol 3350, Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) α-hydro-ω-hydroxy-, PEG, Carbowax, Macrogol

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a highly versatile excipient and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) produced to meet the exacting requirements of the pharmaceutical industry formulators.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that treats occasional constipation.

Polyethylene glycol 3350’s also part of some kits that help you prepare for a colonoscopy procedure.
But colonoscopy prep is an off-label use, meaning Polyethylene glycol 3350 is not approved for this purpose.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is part of a group of medications called osmotic laxatives.

They work by allowing water to be more easily absorbed into the stool.
This helps stool pass more easily.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a flavorless powder that can be mixed into any liquid.

Most people will have a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days after taking Polyethylene glycol 3350.
You should stop taking Polyethylene glycol 3350 once you have a bowel movement.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a water-soluble, inactive ingredient of which only a very small amount is absorbed in the gut or gastrointestinal tract, the rest moves through the body.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is non-toxic and has no effect on the body.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a laxative used to prevent or treat occasional constipation and hard stools.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 works by pulling water into the stool to promote bowel movements and soften the stool.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 may take 2-4 days for the medicine to work.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is available over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription.
Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) is a high-molecular-weight polyether compound belonging to the polyethylene glycol (PEG) family.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a synthetic polymer produced by the polymerization of ethylene oxide and water, forming repeating ethylene oxide units.
The number 3350 refers to the average molecular weight (~3350 g/mol) of the polymer chain.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is in a class of medications called osmotic laxatives.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 works by causing water to be retained with the stool.

This increases the number of bowel movements and softens the stool so Polyethylene glycol 3350 is easier to pass.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a laxative.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is available as an over-the-counter (OTC) product.

USES and APPLICATIONS of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used in many products including medications such as ointments and pills to allow them to be more easily dissolved in water.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 can also be found in common household products such as certain brands of skin creams and tooth paste.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is the most commonly used form of PEG in the United States and Canada for the treatment
of constipation and is the focus of discussion in this FAQ.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used for occasional constipation.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 works by pulling water into your intestines and making your poop softer and easier to pass.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is widely used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cosmetics, and industrial formulations because of its excellent water solubility, low toxicity, and chemical stability.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 forms viscous aqueous solutions and exhibits humectant, lubricating, and dispersing properties, making it useful in many formulations.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used to relieve constipation.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used to treat occasional constipation.
Uses of Polyethylene glycol 3350: Pharmaceuticals - excipients, Pharmaceuticals - actives, Food contact, Cosmetic, Personal care, Chemical intermediates.

-Pharmaceutical Applications of Polyethylene glycol 3350:
Osmotic laxative active ingredient for treatment of constipation
Bowel preparation before colonoscopy procedures
Tablet binder and coating agent
Pharmaceutical excipient in oral, topical, and parenteral formulations
Base for ointments, creams, and suppositories.

-Biotechnology and Laboratory Applications of Polyethylene glycol 3350:
Precipitation of DNA, RNA, proteins, and viruses
Cell fusion and transformation protocols
Stabilizer in biological formulations
Cryoprotectant in some biological processes.

-Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications of Polyethylene glycol 3350: 
Moisturizing and humectant ingredient
Thickening agent in creams and lotions
Stabilizer in emulsions
Ingredient in deodorants, soaps, and skin-care formulations.

-Industrial Applications of Polyethylene glycol 3350:
Plasticizer in polymers and coatings
Lubricant and mold-release agent
Additive in adhesives and cements
Textile and leather processing auxiliary
Pigment and dye dispersant
Component in ceramics, paper, and paint formulations.

BENEFITS AND ADVANTAGES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
Excellent water solubility and dispersibility
Low toxicity and high safety profile
Polyethylene glycol 3350 improves lubricity and processability in industrial formulations
Polyethylene glycol 3350 enhances stability of suspensions and emulsions
Polyethylene glycol 3350 provides moisture retention (humectant effect)
Polyethylene glycol 3350 helps increase solubility of active ingredients
Chemically stable and compatible with many formulation components
Approved for use in many pharmaceutical standards such as USP, Ph. Eur., and JP.

KEY TAKEAWAYS of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that treats constipation.
Most people have a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of taking Polyethylene glycol 3350.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 side effects include nausea, gas, and bloating.
These side effects can usually be managed at home.

GENERAL PROPERTIES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
*Non-ionic polymer
*Highly hydrophilic
*Low volatility
*Chemically stable polyether backbone
*Capable of forming hydrogen bonds with water
*Compatible with many pharmaceutical and cosmetic ingredients
*Non-reactive under most conditions
*Biocompatible and generally non-toxic.

CHARACTERISTICS of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
*Excellent water-binding capacity
*Good lubrication properties
*Effective viscosity modifier
*Forms clear aqueous solutions
*Good film-forming ability
*Compatible with many polymers and surfactants
*Polyethylene glycol 3350 provides steric stabilization in dispersions
*Polyethylene glycol 3350 enhances solubility of poorly soluble compounds.

POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350 AT HOME:
Use the measuring device that comes with Polyethylene glycol 3350.
Mix powder into a liquid such as water, juice, or soda.
Drink immediately.
Give a missed dose as soon as possible.
If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the dose.
Do not give 2 doses at the same time.
Store at room temperature.
Do not use Polyethylene glycol 3350 past the expiration date.
Follow instructions for disposal.

BENEFITS of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
Proven performance in a variety of excipient formulations
Suitable for API Applications: laxative and lavage
Compliance with USP/NF and Ph. Eur. monographs
Solubilize / disperse wide variety of components
Tune formulation to achieve desired form (solid, liquid with certain viscosities and melt-freeze points
Attract and retain moisture—ideal for ointments and lotions
Readily Biodegradable

MECHANISM OF ACTION of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
Polyethylene glycol 3350 cleanses the bowel by induction of diarrhea.
The osmotic activity of polyethylene glycol 3350, in combination with the electrolyte concentration, results in virtually no net absorption or excretion of ions or water.

WHY IS POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350 PRESCRIBED?
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used to treat occasional constipation.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is in a class of medications called osmotic laxatives.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 works by causing water to be retained with the stool.
This increases the number of bowel movements and softens the stool so it is easier to pass.

HOW SHOULD POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350 BE USED?
Polyethylene glycol 3350 comes as a powder to be mixed with a liquid and taken by mouth.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is usually taken once a day as needed for up to 2 weeks.

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take polyethylene glycol 3350 exactly as directed.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 may be habit-forming.
Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or take it for a longer period of time than your doctor tells you to.
It may take 2 to 4 days for polyethylene glycol 3350 to produce a bowel movement.

To use the powder, follow these steps:
If you are using polyethylene glycol 3350 from a bottle, use the measuring line on the bottle cap to measure a single dose (about 1 heaping tablespoon).

If you are using polyethylene glycol 3350 packets, each packet contains a single dose.
Pour the powder into a cup containing 8 ounces (240 milliliters) of water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea.
Stir to dissolve the powder.
Drink immediately.

WHAT IS POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350 USED FOR?
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is commonly used to relieve occasional constipation.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

HOW DOES POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350 WORK (MECHANISM OF ACTION)?
Constipation is a common condition where you have fewer or no bowel movements.
You may strain when you poop and have hard stools, bloating, and cramps.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a laxative.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 works by pulling water into the colon (the part of the digestive system where poop is formed).
This softens poop and makes Polyethylene glycol 3350 easier to pass.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used to treat occasional constipation.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 works by holding water in the stool to soften the stool and increases the number of bowel movements.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is known as an osmotic-type laxative.

WHAT IS POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350?
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a laxative solution that increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

HOW DOES POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350 WORK?
What will Polyethylene glycol 3350 do for me?
Polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) belongs to the class of medications called laxatives.

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used for the relief of occasional constipation.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 works by softening the stools and keeping water in the intestines.

This causes colon muscles to contract and produce a bowel movement more quickly.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 may take 2 to 4 days for this medication to work.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 may be available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms.

Any specific brand name of Polyethylene glycol 3350 may not be available in all of the forms or approved for all of the conditions discussed here.
As well, some forms of Polyethylene glycol 3350 may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here.

Your doctor may have suggested Polyethylene glycol 3350 for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles.
If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking Polyethylene glycol 3350, speak to your doctor.
Do not give Polyethylene glycol 3350 to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do.

HOW SHOULD I USE POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350?
The recommended dose is 17 g (1 sachet or heaping tablespoon) of Polyethylene glycol 3350 once a day.
Polyethylene glycol 3350 should be added to 250 mL (1 cup) of water, juice, pop, coffee, or tea and stirred until all the contents are dissolved.
Drink the solution as soon as Polyethylene glycol 3350's made.
It may take 2 to 4 days for Polyethylene glycol 3350 to work.
Do not use Polyethylene glycol 3350 for longer than 7 days unless recommended by your doctor.

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
CAS Number: 25322‑68‑3
EC Number: 500‑038‑2
UNSPSC Code: 51171641
MDL Number: MFCD00081839
Chemical Name: Polyethylene Glycol 3350
Molecular Formula: H(OCH2CH2)ₙOH
Average Molecular Weight: ~3350 g/mol
Chemical Class: Polyether / polyethylene glycol polymer
Structure: Linear polymer composed of repeating ethylene oxide units terminated by hydroxyl groups

Appearance: White to off-white waxy solid, flakes, or powder
Physical State: Solid
Color: White to off-white
Odor: Essentially odorless
Melting Point / Freezing Point: 53–58 °C
Initial Boiling Point / Boiling Range: No data available
Flash Point: No data available
Autoignition Temperature: No data available
Decomposition Temperature: No data available

Flammability: No data available
Upper / Lower Flammability or Explosive Limits: No data available
pH: No data available
Viscosity: No data available
Water Solubility: No data available
Partition Coefficient (n-octanol/water): No data available
Vapor Pressure: No data available
Density / Relative Density: No data available

Relative Vapor Density: No data available
Particle Characteristics: No data available
Explosive Properties: No data available
Oxidizing Properties: No data available
Other Safety Information: No data available
Chemical Name: Polyethylene Glycol 3350
CAS Number: 25322‑68‑3

EC Number: 500‑038‑2
UNSPSC Code: 51171641
MDL Number: MFCD00081839
Molecular Formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)ₙOH
Average Molecular Weight: 3050–3750 g/mol
Chemical Class: Polyether / polyethylene glycol polymer
Structure: Linear polymer composed of repeating ethylene oxide units terminated by hydroxyl groups

Appearance: White to off-white waxy solid, flakes, or powder
Physical State: Solid polymer at room temperature
Color: White to off-white
Odor: Odorless or very faint odor
Taste: Slightly sweet
Melting Point: ~53–66 °C
Boiling Point: >200–250 °C
Glass Transition Temperature (Tg): ~−67 °C

Density: ~1.09–1.27 g/cm³
Bulk Density: ~400–700 kg/m³
Refractive Index: ~1.469
Viscosity (50% aqueous solution): ~85–105 mPa·s
Vapor Pressure: <0.01 mmHg at 20 °C
Flash Point: ~270 °C
pH (5% aqueous solution): 4.5–7.5
Water Solubility: Highly soluble
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Soluble in methanol, ethanol, acetone, aromatic hydrocarbons; 
slightly soluble in aliphatic hydrocarbons
Hygroscopicity: Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air)
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions

FIRST AID MEASURES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation: 
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact: 
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. 
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact: 
Rinse out with plenty of water. 
Call in ophthalmologist. 
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing: 
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most). 
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains. 
Collect, bind, and pump off spills. 
Observe possible material restrictions. 
Take up dry. 
Dispose of properly. 
Clean up affected area.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 
Foam 
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection. 
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A 
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.

HANDLING and STORAGE of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed. 
Dry.

STABILITY and REACTIVITY of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 3350:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available