People with Eating Disorders Should Avoid Taking Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Solution

body-image-blues.jpg

Polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution is a laxative solution that increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements. This medication also contains potassium, sodium, and other minerals to replace electrolytes that are passed from the body in the stool.

Anorexia and Bulimia

This solution is most often used prior to medical tests that look at the intestines, bowel and colon. Often individuals with eating disorders develop gastrointestinal problems. If the eating disorder is being hidden from the doctor, which in most cases it is. Taking the Polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution before an exam can cause the anorexic or bulimic person to loose even more bodily fluids and through their life sustaining electrolytes way out of balance causing even more health problems.

Conclusion

If the doctor is aware of the eating disorder he/she may still recommend the solution however, measures will be taking to ensure the individual does not abuse the solution (as it is a laxative) and fluids will be replaced with an IV solution.

Source: Healthwise

Find a Treatment Facility Near You

Click on a state below to find eating disorder treatment options that could be right for you.

Select a State Below

 

Support Groups

SupportGroups.com

For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.

disclaimer

The information provided on EatingDisordersOnline.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes and we encourage all visitors to see a licensed physician if they believe that they have an eating disorder. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of EatingDisordersOnline.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.

 

You May Also Want To Read

 

Other People Are Also Reading

EatingDisordersOnline.com Social

Online Support Groups

visit SupportGroups.com

Eating Disorder Support Groups at SupportGroups.com provides a network for those facing life's challenges. Click on the following links to get the support you need in a confidential, caring environment.

Support Groups

 

Eating Disorder Treatment

Find a Treatment Facility

If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder and need help entering into recovery then we are here to offer help in any way we can. We have over 2,000 Treatment Facilities and Treatment Professionals listed on our Directory. You can search by Zip Code, City or State. Click here to search for a Treatment Facility that is right for you.

User Login