Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Golytely (polyethylene glycol)

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestinal lumen to promote bowel evacuation.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestinal lumen to promote bowel evacuation. Used for Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other GI procedures, Treatment of constipation.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

PEG is a non-absorbable polymer that creates an osmotic gradient in the gastrointestinal tract, pulling water into the bowel lumen and increasing stool bulk and motility. This mechanism produces a bowel cleansing effect without significant systemic absorption, making it ideal for bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other GI procedures.

Approved indications

• Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other GI procedures
• Treatment of constipation

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Abdominal bloating
• Abdominal cramping
• Vomiting
• Anal irritation

Key clinical trials

• Pre-packaged Low-residue Diet for Bowel Preparation in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease (NA)
• Cleansing Options in Out-Patient Setting to Improve Tolerance (COOP SIT) Trial (PHASE4)
• Evaluation of Fecal Microbiome Changes After Antegrade Continence Enema Placement and Initiation of Bowel Flush Regimen (PHASE4)
• The Study on the Effect of Different Administration Methods of Simethicone in Reducing Bubbles During Bowel Preparation (PHASE4)
• Clinical Study of Bowel Preparation Before Colonoscopy (NA)
• Study on the Safety and Efficacy of Sodium Phosphate Powder for Intestinal Preparation in People Aged 50 to 70 Years Old (PHASE2)
• Comparison of Split-dose and Single-dose Bowel Preparation Regimens Using Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte(PEG) (NA)
• Application of Linaclotide Capsule in Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy (NA)

Primary sources

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