Abstract: The present invention provides a polyethylene glycol liquid concentrate for treatment of constipation or for gastrointestinal lavage that is chemically stable and resistant to microbial contamination.

Abstract: The field of colonic diagnostic and surgical procedures is hampered by the lack of optimal means available to cleanse the colon. A compromise between convenient, distasteful, solid or low volume, hyperosmotic solutions which cause considerable fluid and electrolyte imbalances in patients and large volume, difficult to consume, iso-osmotic solutions has had to be made heretofore. This invention describes a low volume, hyper-osmotic solution consisting of sulfate salts with and with out polyethylene glycol. Unlike prior art, this composition is useful for the cleansing of the bowel and, in lower volumes, as a laxative, without producing clinically significant changes in bodily function.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for treating irritable bowel syndrome, comprising administering an osmotic laxative and fiber in a therapeutically effective regimen to a patient in need of such treatment. The therapeutically effective regimen includes administering the formulation in a dose and at a frequency and duration sufficient to reduce or eliminate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome or to provide symptomatic or palliative relief to the patient.

Abstract: Overnight relief of constipation symptoms is achieved, and control of bowel function is enhanced by oral administration of an effective or sufficient amount of a composition comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG), preferably dispersed and or dissolved in an aqueous medium. The PEG compositions used for the present invention are preferably substantially free of ancillary electrolytes.

Abstract: A composition for inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption of phosphorous in an individual. The composition includes a quantity of calcium acetate sufficient to bind the phosphorous in the gastrointestinal tract of the individual. The calcium acetate has a bulk density of between 0.50 kg/L and 0.80 kg/L and is dimensioned to form a caplet for fitting within a capsule in a manner that optimizes the volume of the capsule. Also provided is a method for administering the calcium acetate composition of the present invention to an individual to reduce phosphorous absorption by binding with the phosphorous in their gastrointestinal tract.

Abstract: Intestinal gas, cramping and/or anorectal irritation are treated by oral administration of an effective or sufficient amount of a composition comprising polyethylene glycol, preferably dispersed and/or dissolved in an aqueous medium. The PEG compositions used for the present invention are desirably substantially free of ancillary electrolytes.

Abstract: A composition for oral administration to an individual for the purpose of inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption of phosphorous, which includes calcium acetate. A method of inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption of phosphorous, comprising administering orally the composition, preferably close in time to food and beverage consumption.