Last reviewed · How we verify

Polyethylene glycol / Ascorbic acid

Tomas Bata Hospital, Czech Republic · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Polyethylene glycol acts as an osmotic laxative while ascorbic acid provides antioxidant support and enhances bowel cleansing efficacy.

Polyethylene glycol acts as an osmotic laxative while ascorbic acid provides antioxidant support and enhances bowel cleansing efficacy. Used for Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy or other gastrointestinal procedures.

At a glance

Generic namePolyethylene glycol / Ascorbic acid
SponsorTomas Bata Hospital, Czech Republic
Drug classOsmotic laxative with antioxidant supplement
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaGastroenterology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a non-absorbable osmotic agent that draws water into the intestinal lumen, promoting bowel evacuation without significant fluid or electrolyte loss. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) functions as an antioxidant and may enhance the cleansing properties of the preparation. This combination is typically used for bowel preparation prior to diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial 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: