A study aimed to provide an overview of prospective data on the long-term (over 6 months) safety and efficacy of polyethylene glycol 3350 plus electrolytes (PEG3350 + E) – the most widely used osmotic laxative in Europe.

This study included 156 Japanese patients with chronic constipation who were given either PEG3350 + E or placebo orally, for 2 weeks. A 52-week extension study was also conducted on these participants wherein, the patients received PEG3350 + E. 

Oral PEG3350 + E dose was initiated with 13.7 g/day dissolved in 125 mL of water; dose titration was permitted (up to 41.1 g/day) based on the patients bowel condition. The primary efficacy endpoint was a change in frequency of spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) at week-2, compared to the baseline, in the double-blinded study. Safety and efficacy were assessed in the extension study.

The results showed that the frequency of SBMs was significantly higher with PEG3350 + E compared to those with placebo. Of the 153 patients who entered the extension study, a consistent improvement in bowel function could be appreciated in those who received PEG3350 + E therapy. The common side effects were mild gastrointestinal disorders characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal distension.

From the findings, it was concluded that PEG3350 + E treatment conferred short-term benefits in patients with constipation and was well tolerated. This modality provided sustained benefits and prevented symptom recurrence of bowel dysfunction related to chronic constipation in the long term.

Source: Journal of Gastroenterology. 2019;54(9):792-803. doi:10.1007/s00535-019-01581-x