3L-polyethylene glycol

3L-polyethylene glycol refers to a bowel preparation regimen using a total of three liters of polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution, typically PEG 3350. This regimen is used for colon cleansing prior to colonoscopy. Polyethylene glycol acts as an osmotic laxative by binding water in the intestinal tract, increasing stool water content and volume, which induces diarrhea and effectively clears the bowel. The mechanism relies on its poor absorption and high water-binding capacity in the gut. Studies have shown that a 3-liter PEG regimen provides similar efficacy for bowel cleansing compared to traditional higher-volume (4-liter) regimens but with improved patient tolerability and fewer adverse events such as nausea or bloating[7]. The active ingredient is not metabolized or absorbed significantly by the body.

Other names

3L-PEG3-liter polyethylene glycol3L PEG solution