Miralax not working

@thellman This is what I am doing. Some, but not all, of the present distress was exacerbated by a change in diet as my go-to fiber source--oatmeal--started giving me nausea (go figure!). So finding the right foods given a few dietary limitations took some time, though Metamucil has helped.

@ivon At my doctor's suggestion I've just started senakot to help resolve the constipation. Some yoga floor exercises--like twisting and downward dog--are good for the intestines. I love the idea of a trampoline but don't think that's going to happen!

Further update and two questions: Following my doctor's suggestion I took 2 Senokot (in its generic form, without the docusate sodium) last night and two late morning, in addition to the Miralax. Let's just say it was a long, uncomfortable day, but I've finally begun to feel like myself. Both my PCP and GI doc want me to stay on the Miralax until my GI appointment on Aug 11. Now the question: if the Miralax really isn't working--I do believe it was the Senokot that did the trick today--what can I take instead of Miralax. Of course I'll discuss this with my PCP but other suggestions are always welcome.

The second question: can the accumulation of Miralax cause nausea, especially if you throw in the Senokot? Everything I've read says that nausea can be a side effect of certain laxatives, so I'm wondering if this has been a generalized reaction.

As always, many thanks for your generous and insightful suggestions.

I've never experienced nausea with miralax even while taking up to 4 times a day. So it may be the senokot.

I have never had the Miralax cause upset.i think you should do the Miralax every other day to keep your track oily. You should not have to do both everyday. Covid kept people from good exercise. You need exercise and water to keep your bowels in good working condition. You will learn what works . I like this site I have learned what works for me from others. Have a great day!

The questions keep coming: Has anyone tried Linzess? My PCP is suggesting this if the Miralax doesn't do its job.

I tried Linzess- it did not work for me. Senokot stimulates the intestine and can cause nausea.
I’m sure your GI doctor will be able to find out what works for you.

My husband has been on Linzess for about two months but so far we have not had good results. He has a history of constipation, but he also has moderate kidney disease so some things he cannot take. He also has to take iron supplements which work against him. Since he has been on the Linzess, he goes days with no bowel movement then suddenly has explosive diarrhea. As he says, he is then wiped out for hours. He takes the Linzess according to directions—30 minutes before breakfast—then has to stay home until it hits. I am wondering if a probiotic would work better. Also I don’t think he gets enough fiber or exercise, but I try not to make too many suggestions. He is on 145 mg of Linzess. Started on 72mg over a month ago and moved up when it didn’t help. I would have to say that he has not been helped by Linzess. Going to see what the doctor says next. He is only going to kidney doctor and primary care now. He had a colonoscopy two years ago and things were ok, but may be time to see him again. Any suggestions welcome.

Hello @anet Thanks for your reply. I'm sorry to hear of your husband's situation. Iron supplements can really stop you up. Do you know which kind he is taking (ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, ferrous fumarate)? Each one affects the system differently, as I learned years ago when trying them out. Some come in time-release capsules, which can ease the side effects.

As others in this thread mention, fiber and water are crucial. I slowly upped my fiber intake (I was replacing a high-fiber food in my diet) and greatly increased water intake to help resolve constipation issues. Water is especially important when taking iron supplements. Is the dosage recommended by the doctor? Sometimes this can be adjusted depending on the reason for taking iron, always relying on a doctor's or nurse's recommendation (nurses sometimes have a better feel for these issues).

Linzess never worked for me,