Difficulties to pass stools – also known as constipation – are caused by irregular bowel movements. This medical condition is characterized by hardening of stools, bloating of your lower abdomen as well as experiencing pains during the discharge of stools. The causes for such symptoms include a short supply of water, leading a sedentary lifestyle, use of excessive dosages of antacids containing aluminum and / or calcium. Miralax is a commonly used med for treating frequent spells of constipation. But, what is the best time to take this drug? It is a good practice to know more about it.
Constipation or problems in passing stools can be stressful. Erratic movement of bowel is likely to cause such conditions. The average time in between movement of bowel can differ from one individual to another. In a few individuals, these movements may occur twice or thrice per day; however, in some people it may occur only a few times each week. If you are unable to witness bowel movements for 2 days or more, your stools may soon start hardening. As a result, you may find it difficult to pass stools.
In some extreme cases, people living with chronic spells of constipation may need to press their lower abdomen to discharge stools. There are also instances wherein people (living with constipation) used their fingers to remove stools. Your caregiving team may advise you to take foods rich in fiber, drink ample amount of water, lead an active life or include workouts / exercising as part of your daily schedule, not to resist urges to poop, etc.
Uses of Miralax
This drug is administered for the treatment occasional spells of constipation. The key chemicals present in this drug help retain water in stools; as a result, your stools tend to get softer and the odds of movements of bowel become high. Miralax belongs to a class of meds known as osmotic type laxatives.
Miralax is taken orally and the typical dosage is once within a 24-hour timeline. The powder form of this med is taken along with 6 ounces of water or fruit juice. Those who are using thickeners (of liquid) such as starch may need to exercise added caution. It is important to take this med as instructed by your caregiving team and / or pharmacist. Those who used this drug for long may start developing dependencies or may also turn addicted to this drug.
What is the best time to take this laxative drug?
The best way to take miralax is to use it for not more than 6 days at a stretch. The optimal time of intake is during the early part of the day. This practice may prevent erratic movements of bowel say, during the night time or during late hours. Intake of this med may trigger bowel movements in less than 2 to 3 days’ time.
Also, the best time to take miralax is when you are beginning to experience the signs of constipation. The good thing about this med is the key chemicals do not cause an urgent spell to poop – unlike other forms of widely available laxatives. However, after using miralax – if you are not witnessing bowel movements, it is highly recommended to consult with your treating doctor without further delay.
Above all, miralax is known to cause gentler movements of bowels. Hence, you are unlikely to witness discomforts or unwanted side effects such as bloating of tummy or cramping of abdominal muscles, etc. Last but not the least, care to talk to your treating physician / pharmacist of possible drug interactions between miralax and other meds you are currently taking. As a safe practice, it is a vital thing to share all needful inputs about present medication plans / treatment – including intake of over the counter meds, prescription drugs as well as herbal meds / dietary aids – with your doctor.