Why are there so many recall notices involving PEG 3350?

Answer 1

PEG 3350 is the acronym for polyethylene glycol with a molecular mass of 3350 g/mol. This compound may also be referred to as Polyoxyethylene (POE) and Polyethylene Oxide.

This is a comparatively uncomplicated long chain molecule, chemically identical but available in a wide range of molecular masses. It has a huge number of uses, including (but not limited to):

• Laxatives (osmotic)
• Toothpaste (as a dispersant)
• Sexual lubricant
• Whole Bowel Irrigation and lavage
• Cosmetics and make-up
• Body armor
• Foam cushions
• Spandex (TM)
• As a treatment for phenol burns (deactivation of phenol on the wound site)
• And many, many others...

Every time any product containing PEG is involved in a mandatory recall or official warning, PEG is going to be listed as a component, even if it's not the reason for the recall.

The recent recall (July 2010) is for the Schering-Plough laxative, MiraLax. This is a voluntary manufacturer's recall and not an FDA recall. SPH indicates that the recall is purely for a cosmetic issue: The caps on the 30-unit bottle, when exposed to heat, may appear unusual. SPH further reports there is norisk with the medication at all - it's purely cosmetic.

Please check with your doctor and/or pharmacist for verified information in health matters.