Effecol

Effecol is available as a powder in sachets for the preparation of an oral solution, in two formulations adapted to the age of the users:

• Effecol 3350 – for adults and adolescents over 12 years of age, as an oral powder in 13.3 g sachets.
• Effecol Junior – for children aged 2 to 12 years (or weighing >10 kg), in 6.563 g sachets

There is also a liquid form, Effecol Fibre, in a box of 14 sachets of 30 ml each, containing liquid fiber and simethicone.

Effecol is indicated in the following situations:

• occasional or chronic constipation of various causes (sedentary lifestyle, medication, neurological disorders);
• refractory constipation caused by opioids, anticholinergics, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease;
• intestinal transit disorders in children, including the establishment of a normal bowel routine.

The dosage varies according to the age of the users:

• Adults and children >12 years: 1-3 sachets of 13.3 g per day, each dissolved in approximately 125 ml of plain water. For long-term use, the dose may be reduced to 1-2 sachets/day.
• Children between 2 and 6 years: 1 sachet of Effecol Junior per day (dissolved in water).
•  
• Children between 7 and 12 years: 2 sachets of Effecol Junior per day.

Effecol should not be used in cases of:

• confirmed or suspected intestinal obstruction;
• severe intestinal stenosis;
• gastrointestinal perforation or imminent risk;
• active inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis);
• known hypersensitivity to macrogol or excipients (silicon dioxide, flavorings, sodium saccharin).

Effecol Junior is contraindicated in children under 2 years of age, and the adult form is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Effecol is well tolerated, even with repeated or prolonged use, making it ideal for progressive treatment regimens where the dose is adjusted according to the patient's response. In the pediatric setting, the Junior formula is physiologically and metabolically adapted, with no effect on electrolyte balance or the development of intestinal flora.

Effecol can also be used without dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment.

Effecol is generally well tolerated. However, the following may occur temporarily:

• bloating, flatulence, nausea, mild diarrhea, or abdominal pain (especially at the start of treatment);
• flatulence (more common in children);
• rare allergic reactions: pruritus, skin rash, urticaria, in isolated cases – dyspnoea.

Symptoms subside with dose adjustment. If effects persist or worsen, treatment should be discontinued and a doctor consulted.

Although no significant clinical interactions have been reported, caution is advised when combining with other drugs taken by mouth. Effecol may change how fast they are absorbed.

Tell your doctor if you are taking antihypertensive drugs, diuretics, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs at the same time.

In case of overdose, severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting may occur. These may lead to fluid and electrolyte loss. In such situations, it is recommended to discontinue administration, rebalance fluid and electrolyte levels, and seek urgent medical advice if necessary.

Effecol should be stored in a dry place, away from light and heat sources, at temperatures below 25°C. The sachets are single-use and should be opened immediately before use. Do not use after the expiry date stated on the packaging. The product and packaging should be disposed of in accordance with local waste regulations.

• WebMD, Polyethylene glycol 3350
• PubMed, Macrogol (polyethylene glycol) 4000 without electrolytes in the symptomatic treatment of chronic constipation: a profile of its use
• NIH, Polyethylene glycol
• ResearchGate, Laxative Macrogol (polyethylene glycol) in children with functional constipation and fecal impaction: A systematic review