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Macrogol (Forlax)
Macrogol is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestinal lumen to soften stool and promote bowel movements.
Macrogol is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestinal lumen to soften stool and promote bowel movements. Used for Constipation, Bowel preparation before colonoscopy or other gastrointestinal procedures.
At a glance
| Generic name | Macrogol (Forlax) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Bayer |
| Drug class | Osmotic laxative |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Gastroenterology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Macrogol (polyethylene glycol) is a non-absorbable polymer that creates an osmotic gradient in the colon, increasing water retention in the intestinal lumen. This softens fecal matter and increases stool bulk, stimulating peristalsis and facilitating evacuation. It is not systemically absorbed and acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract.
Approved indications
- Constipation (functional and occasional)
- Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other gastrointestinal procedures
Common side effects
- Abdominal bloating
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea
- Flatulence
Key clinical trials
- The Efficacy and Palatability of Developed Polyethylene Glycol-based Formula for Children With Functional Constipation (NA)
- Polyethylene Glycol for Childhood Constipation (PHASE4)
- To Determine the Effect of Forlax® Treatment in Children With Chronic Constipation Who May Also Suffer From Soiling/ Faecal Incontinence. (PHASE3)
- Study of Long-term Use of Forlax® in Elderly Patients With Chronic Constipation (PHASE4)
- Evaluation of Two Different Diet Regimen Prior to Colonoscopy in Children (NA)
- Efficacy and Safety of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Slow Transit Constipation (PHASE2)
- A Study to Compare the Effect of Transipeg 2.95 g or Forlax Junior 4 g in Children With Constipation (PHASE4)
- Efficacy and Safety of Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) for Relief of Constipation (MK-8114-005) (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Macrogol (Forlax) CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Macrogol (Forlax) updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Bayer portfolio CI