polyethylene glycol + electrolytes

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) electrolyte solution is a widely used osmotic laxative primarily indicated for bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopy, surgery, or radiologic examinations. The formulation consists of a high-molecular-weight, non-absorbable polymer (PEG 3350) combined with a balanced mixture of electrolytes, including sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, potassium chloride, and often sodium sulfate. PEG works by exerting an osmotic pressure that retains water within the intestinal lumen, thereby increasing stool volume and softening consistency to trigger peristalsis. The electrolyte component is specifically designed to be iso-osmotic with plasma, minimizing the risk of clinically significant fluid or electrolyte shifts, which is a critical safety advantage for elderly patients or those with renal or cardiac comorbidities.

Brand names

GoLYTELYNuLYTELYColyteGavilyte-CGavilyte-GGavilyte-NTriLyte

Other names

PEG-ELSmacrogol + electrolytescompound polyethylene glycol electrolyte powderpolyethylene glycol 3350 and electrolytes