Miralax is a very effective and popular laxative in children and adults; it even became available over-the-counter in 2006. It is the same type of laxative that is used for bowel preparation for colonoscopies and other procedures. It is inert and stays in the gut and simply adds more water to the stool in small amounts, and in large amounts cleans out the colon. It has really made a big difference in the treatment of constipation issues in children.
The FDA is now investigating its use in children and whether it is tied to any psychiatric issues such as tics and tremors. They are also looking at any impurities in the product and whether those may cause side effects or not.
The medication has never been approved for long-term daily use in adults or children. However, many, many medications are used for diseases or in ways for which they were never formally approved. For now, I think it should continue to be used when necessary. As with any medication, it should not be used unless the benefits outweigh the risks. I do worry now that it is available over-the-counter that it is being used for simple constipation issues that would be better treated with diet changes.
