Miralax (polyethylene glycol) is a medication for the treatment of occasional constipation. Originally prescription-only, Miralax became available over the counter in April of 2007. Miralax works by retaining water in the stool, thus softening the stool and increasing the frequency of bowel movements.
Zelnorm (tegaserod maleate) is a medication approved for the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) and chronic ideopathic constipation (CIC). Zelnorm serves to increase the action of serotonin (an important neurostransmitter) in the digestive system with the result of speeding up colon contractions. Due to a small risk of severe cardiovascular symptoms, there are now strict limitations on the prescription of Zelnorm. Patients must be females under the age of 55, who suffer from chronic constipation, have no risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and who have not experienced symptom relief from any other available treatment.
A clinical trial comparing these two medications was recently published. 237 patients who suffer from chronic constipation were given either Miralax or Zelnorm for a period of 28 days. The results indicated that the patients receiving Miralax had more bowel movements and experienced greater symptom improvement than the patients who received Zelnorm. The patients who received Zelnorm experienced more headaches.
Keep in mind that these results are based on only one study and that Miralax is currently only recommended for short-term use. Before taking Miralax or any medication, prescription or over the counter, it is essential that you speak with your physician first.
Further reading:
.Source:
A Randomized, Multicenter Comparison of Polyethylene Glycol Laxative and Tegaserod in Treatment of Patients With Chronic Constipation. Di Palma, J.A. American Journal of Gastroenterology (2007) 102:1964-1971.
