Compare Suprep vs. Miralax
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Suprep (sodium sulfate/potassium sulfate/magnesium sulfate) and Miralax (polyethylene glycol 3350) are both osmotic laxatives, but they are used for different purposes. Suprep is a prescription medication used to clean out your colon before a colonoscopy, while Miralax is an over-the-counter medication for occasional constipation. Suprep requires a two-dose regimen taken the night before and the morning of your procedure, whereas Miralax is typically taken once a day for up to a week. Miralax usually takes 1 to 3 days to work. Suprep can cause side effects like stomach discomfort and bloating, and it may not be suitable for people with kidney problems. On the other hand, Miralax is generally well-tolerated but can cause nausea, bloating, and gas. Suprep is not available over-the-counter, unlike Miralax, which you can buy without a prescription.
- SuprepPolyethylene glycol (Miralax)
- SuprepPolyethylene glycol (Miralax)
Summary of Suprep vs. Miralax
Summary for Osmotic laxativePrescription onlySuprep is a combination bowel prep kit used to clean out your colon before a colonoscopy. It works by causing diarrhea, which helps clear your intestines so that your gastroenterologist can see inside your colon more clearly. The medication is a berry-flavored liquid taken in two doses that must be prepared according to the instructions. You take the first dose on the night before your procedure and the second dose on the morning of your procedure. Common side effects include bloating, stomach pain, and nausea.
Summary for Osmotic laxativePolyethylene glycol (Miralax) is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication used for occasional constipation. It comes as a powder that you need to mix with a beverage and then drink. Typically, you take a dose of polyethylene glycol (Miralax) once a day, for up to a week. Most people will experience a bowl movement in 1 to 3 days. Some side effects that polyethylene glycol (Miralax) can cause include nausea, bloating, and passing gas.
Indications of Suprep vs. Miralax
Indications forIndications for•Occasional constipation and irregular bowel movementsPros and Cons of Suprep vs. Miralax
Pros and Const for Osmotic laxativePros•Works quickly, within an hour or so•Requires less liquid to drink compared to other bowel prep products•Berry-flavored for taste•Brand-name medication is approved for adults and children 12 years and olderCons•Commonly causes nausea and vomiting•Might not be safe for people with kidney problems•Raises the risk of a gout attack in people with gout•Can interact with medications taken by mouth if taken close to your prep timePros and Const for Osmotic laxativePros•Available OTC, so you don't need a prescription from your provider•Causes less cramping, bloating, gas, or feelings of "having to go right now" compared to other laxatives•A possible option during pregnancy, if provider says it's safe for you to takeCons•Can take a few days before you have a bowel movement•Only for short-term relief of constipation•Might cause loose, watery stoolsCommon Side Effects of Suprep vs. Miralax
Common Side Effects forAdults:
•Overall discomfort (54%)•Bloating (40%)•Stomach pain (36%)•Nausea (36%)•Vomiting (8%)Children: (more than 10%)
•Nausea•Stomach pain•Bloating•VomitingCommon Side Effects forWarnings of Suprep vs. Miralax
Common Side Effects for•Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance•Heart rhythm problems•Seizures•Kidney problems•Colon problems•Serious chokingCommon Side Effects for•Complete or partial blockage of intestinesPrices with our coupons for Suprep vs. Miralax
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