Micralax Enema

What is Micralax?

Micralax is a type of laxative. The disposable applicator is inserted into the anus and the 5ml liquid is gently squeezed into the back passage. This causes water to be drawn into the lower bowels and results in more water in the stools meaning they are softer and easier to pass.

Micralax usually works within 5 to 15 minutes, so make sure you are near a toilet before using it. The usual dose is one tube. Ensure you use a fresh tube of Micralax every time.

Micralax is manufactured by Recipharm Limited and comes in cartons containing 12 tubes. Micralax is a colourless liquid that comes in a disposable plastic 5ml tube with a 5 - 6 cm long flexible nozzle.

Micralax alternatives for constipation

Micralax is suitable for acute cases of constipation and or where the bowels need to be quickly emptied or cleansed. They are considered to be first-line treatments for these situations, rather than Cleen (Fleet) enemas.

In chronic, recurrent or long-term constipation, other types of laxative may be more suitable.

• Stimulant laxatives - irritate the gut lining to cause a bowel movement after 8 - 12 hours. These include senna and bisacodyl. They are suitable for occasional use.
• Osmotic laxatives (stool softeners) - they draw water into the bowel, which softes the stools and makes them easier to pass. They include Movicol, Laxido, and CosmoCol. Osmotic laxatives are more suitable for long-term treatment of constipation.

Sources

• https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9099/pil

Micralax warnings

You should not use Micralax if:

• You are allergic to sodium citrate or sodium alkylsulphoacetate
• You are allergic to any of the other ingredients in Micralax
• You have an inflammatory bowel disease.

You should speak to your doctor before using Micralax if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Micralax directions

How to use Micralax:

• Lie down on your side with your knees drawn up towards your tummy (the fetal position). If you prefer you can sit on the toilet.
• Pull or twist the cap off the tube.
• You can lubricate the nozzle to make it easier to put in. Squeeze a drop of medicine out onto the nozzle.
• Put the full length of the nozzle into your back passage.
• Gently squeeze the tube until it is empty.
• Keep squeezing the tube as you pull the nozzle out. This will stop the medicine from being drawn back into the tube.
• It will normally take 5-15 minutes for the laxative to work. You should be near a toilet at this time.

Do not use more than one Micralax enema.

Micralax ingredients

The active ingredients in Micralax enemas are 450 mg sodium citrate and 45 mg sodium alkylsulphoacetate.

The other ingredients are sorbitol solution, glycerol, sorbic acid and purified water.

Micralax side effects

Most people find that using Micralax causes no side effects, provided it is used correctly and as described in the patient information leaflet.

If you use Micralax too much it may cause diarrhoea or loss of fluid. If your symptoms don't improve within a few days, you should stop using Micralax and speak to your doctor.