Key takeaways
PEG 3350 with electrolytes (Golytely, Nulytely, and Moviprep) and magnesium citrate (Citroma) are both used to help with bowel movements, but they have different uses and ways of working. PEG 3350 with electrolytes is a prescription-only osmotic laxative used mainly to clean out your colon before procedures like colonoscopies. It works by pulling water into your colon, causing watery diarrhea to clear out stools. You need to drink a large amount of liquid, which can be time-consuming and sometimes hard to finish. On the other hand, magnesium citrate is an over-the-counter saline laxative used for occasional constipation. It works faster, usually within 30 minutes to 6 hours, and requires a smaller amount of liquid. However, magnesium citrate might not be safe if you have kidney problems or electrolyte imbalances. While some types of PEG 3350 with electrolytes can be used in children as young as 6 months, magnesium citrate is typically used in children 2 years and older. Both can cause side effects like nausea and stomach pain, but PEG 3350 with electrolytes has more serious risks like kidney damage and seizures if not used correctly.
