CosmoCol^®

Macrogol 3350, sodium chloride, potassium chloride and sodium hydrogen carbonate (also known as macrogol compound oral powder)

Information for Patients

CosmoCol^® is a laxative used to treat constipation and faecal impaction (persistent constipation, where a large volume of stools cause a blockage of the rectum and/or colon).

CosmoCol^® contains Macrogol 3350 which makes your poo/stools/faeces softer and easier to pass, giving you relief from constipation.

The electrolytes (salts) help to maintain your body’s normal levels of sodium, potassium and water while you are being treated for constipation.

Great choice and range of flavours

CosmoCol^® comes in powdered form. It comes in Plain (with no flavour) as well as Orange flavour, Lemon and Lime flavour and, an Orange, Lemon and Lime flavour. Before taking this medicine, please read the information leaflet contained within the packaging.

If you are taking other medications or require thickened fluids, then do make sure you have spoken to your doctor or pharmacist before taking CosmoCol® as some medications may need to be taken at a different time from CosmoCol^®.

How to take CosmoCol^®

CosmoCol^®, like all macrogols, must not be used with starch-based thickeners. This is because macrogols and starch-based thickeners interact and result in thin watery liquid which may not then be swallowed safely.

Each sachet should be mixed with 125mls of water, which is about half a glass or a quarter of a pint. It is the water that forms the active part of the laxative, so it is very important that it is always mixed with the correct amount.

The water that it is mixed with is not absorbed into the body (it binds with the poo/stool/faeces to bulk it up and keep it soft) so should not be included as part of your daily fluid intake.

CosmoCol^® is not recommended for children below 12 years of age.

Additional information

Patient links and organisations

Patient leaflets

Educational videos

0010020038 v1.0 April 2024

0010020039 v1.0 April 2024

CosmoCol®