Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

PEG 3350 plus electrolytes

PEG 3350 plus electrolytes is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the bowel lumen to soften stool and promote bowel evacuation.

PEG 3350 plus electrolytes is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the bowel lumen to soften stool and promote bowel evacuation. Used for Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other gastrointestinal procedures, Treatment of occasional constipation.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 is a non-absorbable osmotic agent that remains in the intestinal lumen and retains water through osmotic action, increasing stool bulk and facilitating passage. The added electrolytes (sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, sodium sulfate) maintain electrolyte balance and prevent dehydration during bowel cleansing. This combination is commonly used for bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other gastrointestinal procedures.

Approved indications

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

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Abdominal bloating
• Abdominal cramping
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Key clinical trials

• What Laxative Should be Used After Hip Fracture Surgery? (PHASE4)
• Evaluation of Fecal Microbiome Changes After Antegrade Continence Enema Placement and Initiation of Bowel Flush Regimen (PHASE4)
• Lactulose vs. Polyethylene Glycol as Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy in Adults (NA)
• Retrospective, Uncontrolled Cohort Study on the Therapy of Chronic Megalon
• Study of Different Endoscopic Preparations Used in Pediatric Colonoscopy
• PillCam® Platform With the PillCam Crohn's Disease Capsule (PHASE1, PHASE2)
• Changes of Serum Electrolytes During Bowel Prep With PEG 3350 + Ascorbic Acid - a Prospective Study
• Evaluation of Oral Simethicone With Low Volume Polyethylene Glycol Bowel Preparation During Colonoscopy (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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