Forlax is a medication containing Macrogol 4000 (10g) in powder form, which is dissolved in water for oral administration. It is classified as an osmotic laxative, designed to treat constipation in adults and children aged 8 years and older.
1. What is Forlax?
Forlax contains Macrogol 4000, a high-molecular-weight compound that absorbs water into the intestines, promoting a laxative effect. Due to its large molecular size, Macrogol is not absorbed or metabolized in the digestive tract.
By forming hydrogen bonds with water molecules, Forlax retains water in the intestines, increasing stool volume and easing constipation.
2. Indications and Contraindications
Forlax is prescribed for the treatment of constipation in: Adults, children aged 8 years and older. It should only be used as a temporary solution, alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle for long-term improvement.
The recommended duration of treatment is up to 3 months.
Benefits of Forlax: Increases bowel movement frequency; Does not negatively affect gut microbiota; Increases stool water content; Does not cause electrolyte imbalances
Contraindications: Forlax should not be used in patients with:
- Inflammatory bowel diseases
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Intestinal obstruction or partial obstruction
- Severe abdominal pain of unknown origin
3. Dosage and Administration
Similar to other medications, when using Forlax, patients should follow the doctor's prescription precisely to ensure the drug's effectiveness and minimize side effects.
Dosage:
- Children (8+ years old): 10g - 20g (1 - 2 sachets) per day. Forlax should not be used for more than 3 months in children. During treatment, a balanced diet should be maintained to optimize results.
- Adults: 10g - 20g (1 - 2 sachets) per day. his daily dosage should be adjusted based on the patient's clinical response.
Overdose:
- Exceeding the recommended dosage may cause severe diarrhea, bloating, or dehydration. If these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.
Missed Dose:
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible.
- If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual.
- Do not double the dose to compensate for a missed one.
4. Side Effects and Precautions
The use of Forlax, a proprietary medication for constipation treatment, may cause some side effects, including:
- Allergic reactions: rash, hives, facial or throat swelling
- Difficulty breathing, fatigue, or collapse.
- Abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, diarrhea.
- Flatulence or an urgent need to defecate.
If any of these side effects occur, stop taking the medication and consult a doctor immediately.
Before using Forlax, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, undergoing treatment for any medical condition, taking other medications, or have a history of allergies to any substances.
To ensure safe use of the medication, patients should not self-medicate, discontinue, or alter the dosage without a doctor's prescription.
Some antiepileptic drugs may reduce the effectiveness of Forlax when taken together. Therefore, these medications should not be used simultaneously within one hour of each other.
Forlax may interact with food, alcohol, and affect its efficacy or increase the risk of severe side effects. It is essential to consult a doctor regarding any dietary restrictions while using Forlax.
Patients with severe gastrointestinal conditions, such as toxic megacolon, perforation or risk of perforation, intestinal obstruction, unexplained abdominal pain, or fructose intolerance, should use Forlax with caution, carefully weighing the benefits and risks.
Forlax may cause certain adverse effects such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Therefore, patients should thoroughly review the medication information and consult their doctor before use.
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