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PEG 4000
PEG 4000 is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestinal lumen to soften stool and promote bowel movements.
PEG 4000 is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestinal lumen to soften stool and promote bowel movements. Used for Constipation, Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other GI procedures.
At a glance
| Generic name | PEG 4000 |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Shire |
| Drug class | Osmotic laxative |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Gastroenterology |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 is a non-absorbable polymer that creates an osmotic gradient in the gastrointestinal tract. Water is retained in the bowel lumen, increasing stool bulk and moisture content, which stimulates peristalsis and facilitates defecation. It does not undergo systemic absorption and acts locally within the GI tract.
Approved indications
- Constipation
- Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other GI procedures
Common side effects
- Abdominal bloating
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
Key clinical trials
- The Efficacy and Palatability of Developed Polyethylene Glycol-based Formula for Children With Functional Constipation (NA)
- Efficacy and Safety of Lubiprostone in the Treatment of Slow Transit Constipation (PHASE3)
- Polyethylene Glycol for Childhood Constipation (PHASE4)
- Comparison of Efficacy & Tolerability Of PEG 4000 Versus PEG 3350+ Electrolytes for Pediatric Fecal Disimpaction (PHASE4)
- Fixed Low-dose Simethicone Combined With Macrogol 4000 (PEG) Reduces Colon Bubble Formation in Colonoscopy
- Comparison of Oral Lactulose Versus Polyethylene Glycol for Bowel Preparation in Low-risk Patients (NA)
- Evaluation of Two Different Regimens of Colon Preparations for Advanced Cleaning. (PHASE4)
- Efficacy of Educational Intervention as Supporting Element in the Treatment of Functional Constipation in Children (NA)
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:
- PEG 4000 CI brief — competitive landscape report
- PEG 4000 updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Shire portfolio CI