Movicol
Also known as: Macrogol, Laxido, CosmoCol
What it's for
Movicol treats constipation by drawing water into the bowel to soften stool. It can also be used at higher doses to clear severe constipation (faecal impaction).
Comes as: Powder sachets to mix with water
How to take it
- For constipation: Usually 1 to 3 sachets daily.
- For faecal impaction: Up to 8 sachets daily for up to 3 days.
- Mix each sachet with 125ml of water.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Stomach bloating or wind
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Feeling sick
- Diarrhoea (if too much is taken)
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Make sure you dissolve it fully in water before drinking
- Drink plenty of extra fluids
- Safe for long-term use if needed
- Tell your doctor if you have heart or kidney problems
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have severe stomach pain
- You have vomiting or cannot keep fluids down
- You have blood in your stool
- Your symptoms get worse or do not improve
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.