MiraLAX Dosing Instructions for Patients Starting Oral Iron

Introduction to MiraLAX and Oral Iron

• The American Gastroenterological Association recommends starting MiraLAX at 17 grams dissolved in 8 ounces of water once daily in the morning to prevent constipation from oral iron supplementation, as oral iron causes constipation in approximately 12% of patients 1, 2

Dosing and Administration

• The American College of Gastroenterology suggests taking iron supplements on an empty stomach in the morning for best absorption, and MiraLAX can be taken at the same time as iron without interaction 1, 2
• The National Kidney Foundation recommends avoiding taking iron with food, as it reduces absorption by up to 50%, but if iron upsets the stomach, it can be taken with food 5, 6

Prevention and Treatment of Constipation

• The American Gastroenterological Association recommends starting MiraLAX on the same day as iron therapy to prevent constipation, as prevention is more effective than treatment 3, 4
• If constipation still develops, increasing MiraLAX to 34 grams once daily or adding senna 2 tablets twice daily may be necessary, and if still constipated, adding bisacodyl 10-15 mg daily can provide relief 3, 4

Important Timing Considerations

• The American College of Gastroenterology advises against drinking tea or coffee within 1 hour after taking iron, as these can block iron absorption, and taking iron more than once daily can increase side effects without improving absorption 1, 2

When to Seek Additional Help

• The American College of Gastroenterology recommends contacting a healthcare provider if there is no bowel movement for 3 days despite taking MiraLAX, or if iron levels or hemoglobin are not improving after 2-4 weeks, as this may indicate the need for intravenous iron instead 1, 2, 4