I am newly diagnosed with a fissure. I am taking Miralax and had a miraculously non lethal BM today. But I am wondering is okay to take Miralax long term, like several months? Will it cause dependency like ex lax?

Miralax is generally thought of as safe for longer term use as it does not work on the nerves of the bowel the way laxatives do, so shouldn't create tolerance or dependency. It rather works by drawing water into the bowel. There are even some people here who have had their doctors recommend it for life. As far as the safety to overall health in taking it for life no one really knows. I'm pretty sure the official studies on the product consider it safe for continuous use for up to 6 months.

jr2 wrote:Miralax is generally thought of as safe for longer term use as it does not work on the nerves of the bowel the way laxatives do, so shouldn't create tolerance or dependency. It rather works by drawing water into the bowel. There are even some people here who have had their doctors recommend it for life. As far as the safety to overall health in taking it for life no one really knows. I'm pretty sure the official studies on the product consider it safe for continuous use for up to 6 months.

Thank you, that is good news indeed as I experienced a miracle today, I was able to go without sobbing thanks to Miralax! I would like to continue it until I heal.