Frequently Asked Questions

DO I NEED A PRESCRIPTION FROM MY DOCTOR TO PURCHASE MOVICOL®?

No. Although MOVICOL® is prescribed by doctors and available on the PBS (available to eligible patients only),
it’s also available for purchase over the counter (OTC) at pharmacies, for patients with chronic constipation or for occasional use.

IS MOVICOL® SUITABLE AS THE FIRST CHOICE OF TREATMENT FOR OCCASIONAL CONSTIPATION?

Yes. MOVICOL® has an effective but gentle mode of action and is an appropriate first choice treatment for both
occasional and chronic constipation. (But before you try a laxative, it is recommended that you try modifying your diet,
water consumption and exercise routine).

WHAT TIME OF DAY SHOULD I TAKE MOVICOL®?

If you are taking more than one sachet per day you can spread them out, for example one morning and night or add a third
sachet in the middle of the day. However, it is of course perfectly acceptable to take the whole dose at once. Each sachet must be
dissolved in 125mL of water. You should always follow your doctor’s instructions. 

ARE PACKS OF MOVICOL® 8 SACHETS DESIGNED FOR PEOPLE WITH OCCASIONAL CONSTIPATION?

Packs of MOVICOL® 8s are convenient for many people with occasional constipation (a pack of 8 should usually be enough to resolve
the condition). However, MOVICOL® powder sachets have a three year manufacturer’s shelf life, so you may prefer to buy a larger
pack of 30 to keep on hand. See available flavours here.

ARE THERE ANY ISSUES WITH LONG TERM USE OF MOVICOL®?

MOVICOL® works in harmony with the body's own processes to facilitate regular bowel movement. In studies of up to 2 years duration,
MOVICOL® has been shown to be generally well tolerated. As with all laxatives, prolonged use is not usually recommended, except under the
guidance of a healthcare professional. Use in children aged 2 years and older should be limited to 12 weeks, except under medical supervision.

HOW LONG WILL MOVICOL® TAKE TO WORK?

Don't be concerned if MOVICOL® does not work immediately.
MOVICOL® usually takes 1 to 2 days to trigger the first bowel movement. 

SHOULD I TAKE MOVICOL® WITH OR WITHOUT FOOD?

MOVICOL® can be taken anytime in relation to food, either before, during, or after a meal.

CAN I MIX MOVICOL® WITH SOMETHING OTHER THAN WATER?

MOVICOL® should only be mixed with water, but if you wish, you can add a small
amount of cordial to the mixed solution (for any MOVICOL® flavour). 

IS MOVICOL® SAFE IN PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING?

MOVICOL® can be taken while breastfeeding.
If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before you take MOVICOL®.

CAN MOVICOL® BE USED BY PEOPLE WITH DIABETES OR LACTOSE OR GLUTEN INTOLERANCE?

MOVICOL® is sucrose, lactose and gluten free.

FAQs