Product image of Microlax (Sodium Citrate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate) supplied by GNH India

Microlax

Active Ingredient:
Sodium Citrate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Origin:
EU

Microlax (Sodium Citrate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate)

Sodium citrate, the active ingredient in Microlax, is a laxative presented as a rectal enema solution for rectal use. It, together with sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, is used to relieve occasional constipation and to cleanse the bowel before diagnostic procedures in adults and children.

GNH India 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 regulatory‑approved products to a broad network of healthcare providers across multiple regions.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Jntl Consumer Health I (Ireland) Limited

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Indications & Clinical Uses

Microlax is a rectal osmotic laxative used to manage conditions affecting bowel transit and to prepare the colon for medical evaluation.

  • Occasional constipation: provides rapid softening of stool and promotes evacuation.
  • Bowel cleansing before diagnostic procedures: clears the rectum to improve visibility for procedures such as sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.
  • Pre‑operative bowel preparation: assists in emptying the lower bowel prior to certain surgeries.

How It Works

  • Sodium citrate creates an osmotic gradient that draws water into the intestinal lumen, while sodium lauryl sulfoacetate acts as a surfactant that reduces surface tension, allowing water to penetrate the rectal mucosa more effectively. The combined action softens stool, increases intraluminal volume, and stimulates peristaltic activity, resulting in prompt bowel evacuation.

Side Effects

Microlax may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

  • Mild rectal irritation or burning sensation.
  • Abdominal cramping or discomfort.
  • Urgency to defecate.
  • Mild diarrhea.
  • Nausea.
  • Transient rectal discomfort.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Severe rectal bleeding.
  • Allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
  • Persistent severe abdominal pain.
  • Electrolyte imbalance with excessive fluid loss.
  • Rare cases of rectal ulceration.

Precautions & Warnings

Before using Microlax, consider the following safety measures.

  • Do not use if allergic to any component: avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to sodium citrate or sodium lauryl sulfoacetate.
  • Avoid prolonged use: limit to occasional relief as directed by a healthcare professional.
  • Consult physician before use in children: pediatric dosing should be supervised.
  • Check for rectal lesions: do not use if there is active hemorrhoids, fissures, or recent rectal surgery.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: use only if clearly indicated after medical advice.
  • Store at ambient temperature: keep in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Avoid Interactions

Microlax can interact with other medicines, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Concurrent use with other osmotic laxatives: may cause excessive fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance.
  • Use with anticholinergic agents: may reduce the efficacy of Microlax.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Concurrent use with anticoagulants: monitor for rectal bleeding.
  • Use with NSAIDs: may increase risk of gastrointestinal irritation.
  • Interaction with mineral supplements (e.g., calcium, magnesium): may reduce the osmotic effect of the enema.

Frequently Asked Questions

Microlax is an over‑the‑counter rectal enema that provides rapid relief of occasional constipation and is used to cleanse the lower bowel before diagnostic procedures such as sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, or certain surgical preparations.

Sodium citrate acts as an osmotic agent, drawing water into the rectal lumen. This increased fluid volume softens stool and stimulates peristalsis, facilitating prompt bowel evacuation. The accompanying surfactant, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, enhances water penetration by reducing surface tension.

The dose of Microlax is determined by the prescribing healthcare professional based on the individual’s age, condition, and clinical need. Patients should follow the specific instructions provided by their doctor or pharmacist and not exceed the recommended amount.

Safety data for Microlax in pregnancy and lactation are limited. It should only be used if clearly indicated and after consultation with a qualified healthcare provider who can weigh the potential benefits against any possible risks to the mother and infant.

To request Microlax, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH India supplies hospitals, pharmacies, and procurement teams worldwide, and will verify trade or institutional credentials before providing pricing, availability, shipping details, and any necessary import documentation.

Microlax differs from oral laxatives by delivering an osmotic effect directly to the rectum, resulting in faster onset of action. Compared with stimulant laxatives, it is generally gentler on the bowel and carries a lower risk of cramping, making it suitable for occasional use and pre‑procedure cleansing.

Microlax should be stored at ambient temperature, below 25 °C, in its original packaging. Protect the container from moisture, direct sunlight, and extreme temperature fluctuations to maintain product stability and effectiveness.

Microlax is administered rectally. The patient lies on their side, inserts the pre‑filled enema tip gently into the rectum, and slowly releases the solution. The product typically works within a few minutes, and the patient should remain in a comfortable position until evacuation occurs.

Serious risks, though rare, include severe rectal bleeding, allergic reactions such as rash or anaphylaxis, and electrolyte disturbances from excessive fluid loss. Patients experiencing intense abdominal pain, persistent bleeding, or signs of an allergic response should seek immediate medical attention.

Microlax should not be used by individuals with known hypersensitivity to sodium citrate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, or any excipients in the formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with active rectal lesions, recent rectal surgery, severe hemorrhoids, or those for whom an osmotic laxative is medically inappropriate.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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