Movicol Powder Plain – 30 Sachets

Description

Movicol Powder Plain – 30 Sachets

Movicol Powder Plain is a laxative used to treat constipation and faecal impaction (a build-up of hardened stools) in adults and children aged 12 and over. It comes as a powder that you dissolve in water to make a drink that helps you pass a bowel movement more easily.

⸻

How It Works

The main active ingredient, macrogol (also known as polyethylene glycol), works by drawing water into the bowel and softening the stool, making it easier to pass. Unlike some other laxatives, Movicol works without causing your body to lose water or important salts (electrolytes), reducing the risk of dehydration.

⸻

Directions for Use

For constipation in adults and children aged 12 and over, the usual dose is 1 to 3 sachets per day, dissolved in water. Each sachet should be dissolved in 125 ml (half a glass) of water. For faecal impaction, the dose may be higher — up to 8 sachets per day taken within a 6-hour period — as directed on the packaging. Do not take more than the recommended dose. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.

⸻

Active Ingredients

• Macrogol 3350 – 13.125 g per sachet
• Sodium chloride – 350.7 mg per sachet
• Sodium hydrogen carbonate – 178.5 mg per sachet
• Potassium chloride – 46.6 mg per sachet

⸻

Possible Side Effects

• Bloating or wind
• Stomach cramps or discomfort
• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, or swelling) — rare

If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.

⸻

Who Should Not Take This Medicine

• People with a known allergy to macrogol (polyethylene glycol) or any other ingredient
• People with a blocked or perforated bowel (intestinal obstruction or perforation)
• People with a condition that causes reduced bowel movement (paralytic ileus)
• People with severe inflammatory bowel conditions such as toxic megacolon
• Children under 12 years (this formulation is not suitable for children under 12)

⸻

Interactions

Movicol is not known to have significant interactions with most medicines. However, because it increases the movement of water through the gut, it may affect how quickly other oral medicines are absorbed if taken at the same time. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

⸻

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Macrogol is not significantly absorbed into the body, so it is generally considered to have a low risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, as with all medicines, caution is advised. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

⸻

Alcohol

There are no known interactions between Movicol Powder Plain and alcohol. However, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, so it is sensible to drink plenty of water while taking this medicine and to avoid excessive alcohol consumption.

⸻

Driving and Operating Machinery

Movicol Powder Plain is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It does not cause drowsiness or impair concentration. You can drive as normal while taking this medicine.

⸻

Storage

Store Movicol Powder Plain below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct heat and moisture. Once a sachet has been dissolved in water, the solution should be used within 6 hours and kept in the fridge. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

⸻

Important Information

• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.

⸻

Patient Information Leaflet

For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.

⸻

This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: February 2026.

Brand	Movicol