Piolax Syrup

PIOLAX SYRUP by AGLOWMED LTD.

PIOLAX SYRUP is a medication manufactured by AGLOWMED LTD., designed to provide relief from constipation and assist in bowel preparation. It functions as a laxative, leveraging a combination of osmotic and lubricant properties.

• Name: Piolax Syrup (or Piolax Oral Solution)
• Composition: Each 15 ml of Piolax Oral Solution contains Lactitol 66.67% w/v and Liquid Paraffin 3.75 ml.
  • Lactitol is an osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into the intestine, softening the stool and increasing its volume, which promotes bowel movements. It is minimally absorbed and broken down by colonic bacteria into organic acids.
  • Liquid Paraffin acts as a stool softener and lubricant, helping to ease the passage of stool through the intestines.
• Uses:
  • Short-term relief of occasional constipation.
  • Bowel preparation prior to certain medical procedures, diagnostic tests, surgeries, or childbirth.
  • Lactitol, in higher doses, is also used to manage hepatic encephalopathy (a condition affecting brain function due to liver disease).
• Dosage and Administration:
  • The precise dosage and duration of treatment should be determined by a healthcare professional, as it can vary based on the individual's condition and response.
  • Typically, such laxatives are taken once daily, often at bedtime, as they may take 6 to 12 hours to produce an effect.
  • Shake the bottle well before use. Measure the exact amount using a measuring cup or spoon and dilute it in water or juice before consumption.
  • It is advisable to take this medicine at least 2 hours after other medications, as it may interfere with their absorption.
  • Maintain adequate fluid intake (6-8 glasses of water per day) while using this medication to prevent dehydration.
• Side Effects:
  • Common Side Effects: Abdominal pain, cramps, distension, gas (flatulence), diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, upper respiratory tract infection, increased blood pressure, increased blood creatinine phosphokinase.
  • Serious Side Effects (rare): Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium, hyponatremia), dizziness, fainting (especially due to dehydration), allergic reactions (hives, itching, rash, swelling of the face/eyes/tongue, difficulty breathing), lipid pneumonitis (if Liquid Paraffin is accidentally aspirated), anal seepage and irritation (with prolonged use of Liquid Paraffin).
• Precautions:
  • Do not use if allergic to Lactitol, Liquid Paraffin, or any other ingredients.
  • Avoid in cases of known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, perforation, or severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
  • Not recommended for individuals with galactosemia.
  • Exercise caution in diabetic patients, as Lactitol may slightly affect blood glucose levels.
  • Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as the benefits and risks should be carefully considered.
  • Prolonged continuous use (more than one week) is generally not recommended without medical advice, as it may lead to dependence or electrolyte imbalance.
  • Liquid Paraffin's oral form is not recommended for children under 3 years old due to aspiration risk.
  • Liquid Paraffin may interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
  • Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C, away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly sealed to protect it from moisture and light. Always keep this medicine out of reach of children and pets.

What is PIOLAX SYRUP used for?

PIOLAX SYRUP is primarily used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation. It is also indicated for bowel cleansing and preparation before medical procedures such as surgery, colonoscopy, radiological examinations, and childbirth.

How does PIOLAX SYRUP work?

PIOLAX SYRUP contains Sodium Picosulfate, which is a stimulant laxative. It is a prodrug that remains unchanged until it reaches the colon, where gut bacteria metabolize it into an active compound. This active compound stimulates the muscles of the large intestine, increasing peristaltic movements, and promotes the accumulation of water and electrolytes in the colon. This action softens stools and facilitates bowel movements. Its effect typically begins within 6 to 12 hours after administration.

What is the usual dosage for PIOLAX SYRUP?

For adults and children over 10 or 12 years of age, the recommended dose is typically 5-10 ml (or 5-10 mg) once daily, usually taken at night. It is advised to start with the lowest effective dose. For children under 10 or 12 years, PIOLAX SYRUP should only be given under a doctor's guidance, with specific dosages adjusted for age and body weight.

What are the possible side effects of PIOLAX SYRUP?

Common side effects may include abdominal pain, cramps, discomfort, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and headache.

More serious but less common side effects that require immediate medical attention include dizziness or fainting (especially due to dehydration), severe stomach pain, significant electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium or sodium), severe dehydration, allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing), irregular heartbeat, seizures, or kidney injury.

Is PIOLAX SYRUP safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During Pregnancy: Exercise caution when considering PIOLAX SYRUP if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is essential to consult your doctor before taking this medicine, as there is limited information on its effects during pregnancy. Some sources suggest avoiding its use unless deemed necessary by a healthcare professional.

During Breastfeeding: It is advisable to consult your doctor before using PIOLAX SYRUP while breastfeeding. There is limited information available regarding its excretion into human breastmilk.

Can PIOLAX SYRUP be taken with other medications?

Yes, but caution is advised. PIOLAX SYRUP should generally be taken at least 2 hours after other medications, as it can interfere with their absorption. Specifically:

• Avoid taking other laxatives simultaneously.
• Concomitant use with diuretics or corticosteroids may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance.
• Antibiotics may reduce the laxative effect of PIOLAX SYRUP.
• The absorption and effectiveness of regularly prescribed oral medications, including contraceptives, anti-diabetics, iron supplements, and anti-epileptics, may be affected or modified. Isolated cases of seizures have been reported in patients on antiepileptics.

What precautions should be taken when using PIOLAX SYRUP?

• Do not use PIOLAX SYRUP continuously for more than 5 days without consulting a doctor, as prolonged use can lead to dependency and electrolyte imbalances.
• Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of clear fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte disturbances.
• PIOLAX SYRUP is not recommended for children under 10 or 12 years of age unless specifically advised and monitored by a doctor.
• Do not use this medicine if you have conditions such as intestinal obstruction, severe abdominal pain, dehydration, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), acute abdominal conditions (like appendicitis), severe dehydration, congestive heart failure, or an allergy to its ingredients.
• Patients with kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, low seizure threshold, or recent gastrointestinal surgery should use PIOLAX SYRUP with caution and under medical supervision.
• Since it may cause dizziness, exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.

What happens if a dose of PIOLAX SYRUP is missed?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If PIOLAX SYRUP was prescribed for bowel preparation before a medical procedure, contact your doctor immediately as the procedure time might need to be adjusted.

How should PIOLAX SYRUP be stored?

PIOLAX SYRUP should be stored in a cool and dry place, typically below 30°C. Keep the bottle tightly sealed to protect the syrup from moisture and light. Always ensure the medicine is kept out of reach of children and pets. Do not use the syrup beyond its expiry date.