Is MiraLAX a Microplastic?

Polyethylene Glycol is listed as a significant portion of microplastic pollution. It’s also sold as MiraLAX.

Is polyethylene glycol a Microplastic?

Here is a list of the most used types of microplastics: Polyethylene (PE), Polyethylene Glycol (you can find them as PEG- followed by a number for example PEG-32), Polypropylene (PP), Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Nylon.

Is polyethylene glycol harmful to humans?

A consequence of its low reactivity is that PEG does not exhibit toxicity in humans also because mammals do not have enzymes which are able to metabolize PEG. Therefore, once ingested or parenterally administered PEG remains intact until it is eliminated via urine or feces.

Is polyethylene glycol 2000 safe to ingest humans?

In controlled amounts, polyethylene glycol is not harmful if ingested and is an ingredient in laxative medications. Ethylene glycol, by contrast, is very toxic and is best known for its use in antifreeze and deicer solutions.

What is MiraLax made of?

MiraLAX contains the ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). MiraLAX is also available in generic versions, which are usually store brands.

Is MiraLax considered a laxative?

This medication is used to treat occasional constipation. It works by holding water in the stool to soften the stool and increases the number of bowel movements. It is known as an osmotic-type laxative. This medication is also available without a prescription.

What is polyethylene glycol plastic?

PEG, which is the abbreviation of polyethylene glycol, is not a definitive chemical entity in itself, but rather a mixture of compounds, of polymers that have been bonded together. Polyethylene is the most common form of plastic, and when combined with glycol, it becomes a thick and sticky liquid.

Is polyethylene glycol a laxative?

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is a laxative solution that increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements. Polyethylene glycol 3350 is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements.

Which products contain polyethylene glycol?

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is found in many skin creams, lotions, soaps, hair products and shower gels. PEGs are petroleum-based compound that are often used as thickeners, solvents, softeners, and moisture-carriers.

What is polyethylene glycol in food?

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) or macrogol is a polyether compound. It is widely used as an additive in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and food [1]. Different types of macrogol exist according to their molecular weight from 300 g/mol to 10,000,000 g/mol [2]. Anaphylactic reactions to macrogol are rarely reported.