GNH USA

Europe — EMA

Microlax

GNH USA supplies Microlax (Sodium Citrate), an osmotic rectal laxative for occasional constipation and bowel cleansing before procedures.

Sodium Citrate, Sorbitol (E420), Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate

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What is Sodium Citrate, Sorbitol (E420), Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate?

Sodium citrate, the active ingredient in Microlax, is a laxative presented as a rectal enema solution for rectal use. It works together with sorbitol and sodium lauryl sulfoacetate to soften stool and promote evacuation in individuals experiencing occasional constipation or requiring bowel cleansing before medical procedures.

GNH USA supplies Microlax as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide. The company adheres to stringent quality standards and provides reliable logistics for global distribution. All batches are manufactured under EU GMP guidelines.

What is Sodium Citrate, Sorbitol (E420), Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate used for?

Microlax is an osmotic rectal laxative used to treat conditions affecting bowel motility and stool consistency.

Occasional constipation: provides rapid softening of stool and facilitates evacuation without systemic absorption. Bowel cleansing before diagnostic or therapeutic procedures: clears the rectum to improve visualization and preparation for examinations such as colonoscopy or surgery. Pre‑operative bowel preparation: ensures an empty rectum to reduce infection risk during surgery. Diagnostic imaging preparation: improves image quality for barium enema or other rectal studies. Rapid onset of action: typically produces a bowel movement within 5–20 minutes.

What are the side effects of Sodium Citrate, Sorbitol (E420), Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate?

Microlax may cause local and systemic reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects: - Mild rectal irritation or burning sensation that usually resolves quickly. - Cramping or abdominal discomfort occurring shortly after administration. - Urgency to defecate or increased frequency of bowel movements for a short period. - Watery or loose stool resulting from the osmotic effect. - Transient nausea or mild feeling of queasiness that usually subsides quickly.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe abdominal pain or colic that persists beyond the initial evacuation. - Allergic reactions such as rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing requiring medical attention. - Rectal bleeding or hemorrhage, especially if the mucosa is traumatized. - Electrolyte imbalance such as low sodium, though rare, may occur with excessive use.

What precautions apply to Sodium Citrate, Sorbitol (E420), Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate?

Before using Microlax, consider the following precautions to ensure safe and effective use. - Contraindicated in intestinal obstruction: avoid use if there is a known blockage of the bowel. - Avoid in inflammatory bowel disease flare-ups: may exacerbate symptoms during active disease. - Allergy assessment: do not use if hypersensitivity to sodium citrate, sorbitol or sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is known. - Pregnancy and lactation: safety not established; use only if clearly needed after medical advice. - Frequency of use: limit to occasional relief; prolonged use may cause electrolyte disturbances. - Store at room temperature: keep container tightly closed, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

What does Sodium Citrate, Sorbitol (E420), Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate interact with?

Microlax can interact with certain medications; consider the following when co‑administering.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - None identified: no major drug–drug interactions have been reported for the rectal enema formulation.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Diuretics: concurrent use may increase risk of electrolyte imbalance due to additional fluid loss. - Other laxatives or stool softeners: additive effect may cause excessive bowel stimulation or diarrhea. - Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum: may alter the osmotic activity of sorbitol. - Oral electrolyte supplements: monitor serum levels if Microlax is used frequently. - Antibiotics that affect gut flora: may increase risk of diarrhea when combined with Microlax. - Cardiovascular drugs that rely on fluid balance (e.g., ACE inhibitors): monitor blood pressure if large volumes are used repeatedly.

Frequently asked questions

What is Microlax used for?+
Microlax is a rectal enema formulated to relieve occasional constipation and to cleanse the bowel before diagnostic or therapeutic procedures such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or surgery. It works locally in the rectum to soften stool and stimulate evacuation, providing rapid relief without systemic effects.
How does sodium citrate work in Microlax?+
Sodium citrate acts as an osmotic agent; it draws water from surrounding tissues into the intestinal lumen, increasing the fluid content of stool. This osmotic effect, combined with sorbitol and the surfactant sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, softens the fecal mass and promotes motility, leading to a prompt bowel movement.
What is the usual dose of Microlax?+
The appropriate dose of Microlax is determined by the prescribing healthcare professional. Typically, a single rectal enema is administered, and the patient is advised to retain the solution for a short period to allow its action. Patients should follow the prescriber's instructions and not exceed the recommended frequency.
Is Microlax safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?+
Safety of Microlax in pregnancy and lactation has not been definitively established. It should be used only if clearly needed and after a risk‑benefit assessment by a qualified healthcare provider. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss alternative options with their clinician.
How do I order Microlax from GNH USA?+
To order Microlax, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnh-usa.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH USA supplies hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, and will request verification of trade or institutional credentials. The sales team will then provide pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.
How does Microlax compare with other laxatives?+
Microlax provides rapid, localized relief via a rectal enema, whereas oral osmotic laxatives (e.g., lactulose, polyethylene glycol) act systemically and may require several hours to work. Compared with stimulant laxatives, Microlax is generally gentler on the colon and carries a lower risk of electrolyte disturbance when used occasionally.
How should Microlax be stored and handled?+
Microlax should be stored at room temperature, below 25 °C, in its original container. Keep the bottle tightly closed, protect it from moisture, direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Do not freeze the product, and ensure the container is kept out of reach of children.
How is Microlax administered?+
Microlax is administered rectally. The patient lies on their side with the lower leg drawn up toward the abdomen, inserts the nozzle of the pre‑filled enema bottle into the rectum, and gently squeezes the bottle to deliver the solution. The patient remains in the same position for a few minutes to allow the enema to act.
What are the most serious risks to watch for when using Microlax?+
Serious risks, although rare, include severe abdominal pain or colic that persists, allergic reactions such as rash, swelling or breathing difficulty, and rectal bleeding, especially if the mucosa is traumatized. If any of these symptoms occur, medical attention should be sought promptly.
Who should not use Microlax?+
Microlax should be avoided in individuals with known intestinal obstruction, severe inflammatory bowel disease flare‑ups, or hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients (sodium citrate, sorbitol, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate). It is also not recommended for routine, long‑term use without medical supervision.
Information provided on this page is for educational use by procurement and clinical professionals. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for medical advice and prescribing decisions. GNH USA supplies this product subject to applicable regulatory and licensing requirements.

Product details

Drug
Sodium Citrate, Sorbitol (E420), Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Route
Rectal Use
Manufacturer
Kenvue Netherlands B.V.
Origin
EU

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