Home Drug Guide Polyethylene Glycol 3350, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Chloride

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Polyethylene Glycol 3350, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Chloride

Brand Names Nulytely, Nulytely-flavored, Trilyte, Lax-lyte With Flavor Packs

Classification

Therapeutic: Laxative, Osmotic

Pharmacological: Electrolyte and osmotic agent

FDA Approved Indications

Preparation for gastrointestinal endoscopy or surgery by cleansing the bowel

Mechanism of Action

Polyethylene glycol 3350 is an osmotic laxative that retains water in the stool, resulting in softer stool and increased bowel movements. Potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride help replace electrolytes and maintain electrolyte balance during bowel cleansing.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically 4 liters divided into 4 doses over several hours prior to the procedure, as directed by the healthcare provider.

Pediatric: Dosing varies by age and weight; specific pediatric protocols are provided in the product labeling and should be followed by healthcare professionals.

Geriatric: Use with caution; monitor for electrolyte imbalance and dehydration.

Renal Impairment: Adjustments may be necessary; monitor electrolytes.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor electrolytes.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption of polyethylene glycol; electrolytes are absorbed according to body's needs.

Distribution: Electrolytes distribute throughout total body water.

Metabolism: Not metabolized; electrolytes are metabolized or utilized as needed.

Excretion: Electrolytes and polyethylene glycol are excreted via feces and urine.

Half Life: N/A for polyethylene glycol; electrolytes are cleared via renal processes.

Contraindications

Bowel perforation, complete gastrointestinal obstruction, active gastrointestinal bleeding

Precautions

Electrolyte imbalance, renal insufficiency, heart failure, dehydration, allergies to components. Use with caution in pregnancy and lactation; consult healthcare provider.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Nausea (Common)
Bloating (Common)
Abdominal cramping (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia, hyponatremia) (Rare)
Allergic reactions (Rare)
Serious dehydration, syncope (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Other diuretics, corticosteroids, medications affected by electrolyte levels

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor hydration status, electrolytes, and renal function before and after administration.

Diagnoses:

Risk for electrolyte imbalance
Risk for dehydration
Impaired fluid volume

Implementation: Instruct patient to hydrate adequately; administer as per protocol; monitor for adverse effects.

Evaluation: Assess bowel movement efficacy, hydration status, electrolyte levels.

Patient/Family Teaching

Follow preparation instructions carefully.
Maintain adequate hydration.
Report symptoms of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
Do not consume solid food during preparation period unless instructed.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

None

Genetic Factors: None known related to genetic factors.

Lab Test Interference: May alter electrolyte levels; monitor labs.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Severe diarrhea, dehydration, electrolyte disturbances.

Treatment: Discontinue product; restore electrolytes and hydration; provide supportive care; seek emergency medical attention if severe.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, protected from moisture.

Stability: Stable when stored properly; check expiration date.