Editing Openai/6918c9b5-77bc-8013-8748-6b8370644a64 (section)

==== 1. The FDA requires OTC laxatives to be labeled for short-term, occasional constipation ====

MiraLAX is sold over-the-counter, not as a prescription.
OTC drugs must follow very conservative FDA labeling rules:
* OTC laxatives must be labeled for “occasional constipation.”
* FDA requires a warning that says “Do not use more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor.”

This is true even when the active ingredient is known to be safe long-term in prescription use.

So the 7-day limit is regulatory, not dictated by an evidence-based safety problem.