Drugs Q & A

Can You Take Ibuprofen With MiraLAX?

Ibuprofen the active ingredient in Advil, belongs to a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body’s production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation. Prescription ibuprofen is used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints) and rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints). It is also used to relieve mild to moderate pain, including menstrual pain (pain that happens before or during a menstrual period).

Nonprescription ibuprofen is used to reduce fever and to relieve minor aches and pain from headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual periods, the common cold, toothaches, and backaches. For strains and sprains, some doctors and pharmacists recommend waiting 48 hours before taking ibuprofen as it may slow down healing. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. Ibuprofen is typically used for period pain or toothache.

What is MiraLax?

MiraLAX is a popular brand of polyethylene glycol 3350, a laxative used to treat occasional constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). MiraLax is manufactured by Bayer and was approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in February 1999.

Basically, osmotic agents, such as polyethylene glycol found in MiraLAX, work naturally with the water in the colon to unblock a person’s system. Soluble, non-absorbable PEG 3350 hydrates, softens and eases stools by gently attracting water in the colon through a process known as osmosis. The water increases stool volume and stretches the wall of the bowel, triggering the defecation reflex so the digestive system can be unblocked naturally.

Can You Take Ibuprofen With MiraLAX?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) are common causes of constipation. These medications are often used on a daily basis for pain and inflammation and when they are used daily, they can really stop you from pooping. Using, Ibuprofen with MiraLax can prevent the latter from working properly. Although No interactions have been identified between ibuprofen and MiraLAX, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist.

In addition, do not take any other medicines within 2 hours of taking a laxative. If you’re taking a prescription medicine or supplement of any kind, talk to your doctor before taking a MiraLax. You also shouldn’t mix different types of laxatives.

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Dr. Oche Otorkpa PG Cert, MPH, PhD

Dr. Oche is a seasoned Public Health specialist who holds a post graduate certificate in Pharmacology and Therapeutics, an MPH, and a PhD both from Texila American University. He is a member of the International Society of Substance Use Professionals and a Fellow of the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK. He authored two books: "The Unseen Terrorist," published by AuthorHouse UK, and "The Night Before I Killed Addiction."
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