Movicol Powder Plain – 50 Sachets

Description

Movicol Powder Plain – 50 Sachets

Movicol Powder Plain is a laxative used to treat constipation and faecal impaction (a severe build-up of hard stools) in adults and children aged 12 and over. Each sachet is dissolved in water to create a drink that helps restore normal bowel function gently and effectively.

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How It Works

The main active ingredient in Movicol is macrogol (also known as polyethylene glycol), which works by drawing water into the bowel from the body’s tissues. This softens and loosens hard stools, making them easier to pass. Importantly, Movicol replaces the water and electrolytes it draws in, so it does not cause dehydration like some other laxatives can.

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Directions for Use

For constipation in adults and children aged 12 and over, the usual dose is 1 to 3 sachets per day, taken in divided doses. Each sachet should be dissolved in 125 ml (half a glass) of water and drunk straight away. For faecal impaction, the dose is higher — up to 8 sachets per day — and should only be used under medical supervision. Do not use for more than 2 weeks for constipation without speaking to a healthcare professional. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.

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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

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Possible Side Effects

• Bloating or a feeling of fullness
• Stomach cramps or pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhoea (especially if the dose is too high)
• Vomiting
• Anal discomfort
• Allergic reactions (such as skin rash or itching) — rare

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

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Who Should Not Take This Medicine

• People with a known allergy to macrogol or any other ingredient in the product
• People with a perforated bowel or a risk of bowel perforation
• People with a bowel obstruction or suspected bowel obstruction (ileus)
• People with severe inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis during a flare
• People with toxic megacolon
• Children under 12 years old (a different Movicol formulation is available for younger children — speak to your pharmacist)

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Interactions

Movicol Powder Plain is not known to interact significantly with most other medicines. However, because it increases the movement of fluid through the gut, it may theoretically affect how quickly other oral medicines are absorbed. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Movicol is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream and is generally considered suitable for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed. However, it is always best to seek medical guidance before using any medicine during pregnancy or whilst nursing. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

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Alcohol

There are no known interactions between Movicol Powder Plain and alcohol. However, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which may worsen constipation, so it is advisable to drink plenty of water and moderate your alcohol intake whilst treating constipation.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Movicol Powder Plain does not cause drowsiness and is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. You can continue these activities as normal whilst taking this medicine.

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Storage

Store Movicol Powder Plain sachets below 25°C in a dry place. Once dissolved in water, the solution should be used within 6 hours. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

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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.

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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.

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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