People With Eating Disorders Should Avoid Taking Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Solution

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