Movicol Sachets (Polyethylene Glycol)

Description

Introduction

Movicol Sachets contain macrogol, also called polyethylene glycol, with salts, as a powder to mix with water. Movicol is used to relieve constipation. This page explains how it is taken and when to seek advice.

What Is It?

This listing is for sachets of 13.8 g, available in quantities of 10, 20 and 30. The listed manufacturer is Win-Medicare Pvt Ltd.

Details below come from the Australian Movicol Flavour Free consumer information, which describes a 13.7 g sachet containing macrogol 3350, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and potassium chloride. Your pack may differ, so follow its own leaflet.

How Does It Work?

Macrogol keeps water in the bowel, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass. The salts help keep the body’s fluid and salt balance steady.

Common Uses

Movicol is used to relieve constipation, including long-term constipation. It is also used for faecal impaction when a doctor has confirmed this. Use for impaction only on medical advice.

How Is It Taken?

• Dissolve each sachet in about 125 mL of water.
• The Australian information says the usual amount for constipation is 1 sachet a day, which can be increased to 2 or 3 sachets a day. Follow your pack or your doctor’s directions.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Keep any mixed solution in the refrigerator and discard it after 24 hours.
• Stop taking it if you get severe diarrhoea, until the diarrhoea clears.

Long-term use should only happen under medical supervision.

Possible Side Effects

Common effects include stomach ache or rumbling, bloating, feeling sick and diarrhoea, especially when starting. Allergic reactions can occur. Stop and contact your doctor if you feel weak or short of breath, very thirsty with a headache, or if your ankles become puffy.

Who Should Not Take It?

Do not take Movicol if you have a bowel obstruction, a perforated bowel wall, a paralysed bowel, severe inflammatory bowel disease, or an allergy to macrogol.

Who Should Seek Advice First?

• Pregnancy: talk to your doctor before use.
• Low-salt diet: each sachet contains about 187 mg of sodium.
• Heart conditions: ask your doctor before use.
• Children: this product is not for children unless a doctor advises it. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first.

Medicine Interactions

Movicol may change how well other medicines are absorbed, and isolated reports link it to reduced effectiveness of some anti-epileptic medicines. It can also thin starch-based food thickeners, which matters for people with swallowing problems. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you take regular medicines.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I mix Movicol?

Dissolve each sachet in about 125 mL of water, or as your pack directs.

Can I use Movicol while breastfeeding?

The Australian information says it can be used while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure.

Can I keep the mixed drink for later?

Yes, in the refrigerator, but discard it after 24 hours.

When should I see a doctor?

See your doctor if your symptoms continue, or sooner if you have severe stomach pain, vomiting or blood in your stools.

Sources

Movicol Flavour Free consumer medicine information.

Always read the label and follow the directions on the pack. Updated November 2026. This general information does not replace individual advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

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