The Clearlax lawsuit is drawing national attention as families raise serious concerns about potential side effects linked to polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) laxatives — particularly in children and long-term users.
Clearlax is commonly marketed as a gentle, over-the-counter solution for constipation. But lawsuits allege consumers were not adequately warned about possible neuropsychiatric symptoms, kidney injury risks, and toxic impurities.
This guide explains:
- What the Clearlax lawsuit is about
- The science behind PEG 3350 safety concerns
- Whether Clearlax is the same as MiraLAX
- Who may qualify for compensation
- What steps to take if you are considering legal action
What Is Clearlax?
Clearlax is an over-the-counter osmotic laxative used to treat occasional constipation. Its active ingredient is Polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350).
PEG 3350 works by:
- Drawing water into the colon
- Softening stool
- Stimulating bowel movements within 1–3 days
Although marketed primarily for short-term adult use, many pediatricians have recommended PEG 3350 products off-label for children experiencing chronic constipation.
Important: Clearlax is not FDA-approved for long-term use or for pediatric treatment.
Is Clearlax the Same as MiraLAX?
Yes. Clearlax and MiraLAX both contain polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) and
function the same way.
The Key Differences:
| Feature | Clearlax | MiraLAX |
| Active Ingredient | PEG 3350 | PEG 3350 |
| Brand Type | Generic / Store Brand | Original Brand |
| FDA Approval | Same compound | Approved for short-term adult use |
| Pediatric Approval | Not approved | Not approved |
| Long-Term Studies | Limited | Limited |
MiraLAX is the original branded PEG 3350 product. Clearlax is typically a generic or store-brand equivalent.
Chemically, they are nearly identical. However, lawsuits focus not on brand differences — but on the safety profile of PEG 3350 itself.
Why Are There Clearlax Lawsuits?
The Clearlax lawsuit centers on allegations that PEG 3350 laxatives may pose risks that were not properly disclosed to consumers.
Claims generally fall into four categories:
1. Toxic Impurities in PEG 3350
Testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration identified trace amounts of:
- Ethylene glycol (EG)
- Diethylene glycol (DEG)
Both substances are associated with antifreeze toxicity at high levels.
Although detected levels were small, plaintiffs argue:
- Long-term exposure was not fully studied
- Parents were not warned of contamination risks
- Safety in children remains unclear
2. Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Children
One of the most serious allegations involves behavioral and neurological symptoms reported in children using PEG 3350 products long-term.
Reported symptoms include:
- Anxiety and panic episodes
- Aggression or mood swings
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Extreme lethargy
While causation remains debated in scientific communities, lawsuits claim manufacturers failed to adequately investigate or disclose potential risks.
3. Kidney Injury and Metabolic Complications
Some claims allege:
- Acute kidney injury
- Chronic kidney damage
- Oxalate nephropathy
- Electrolyte imbalances
These complications may require hospitalization and long-term treatment.
4. Off-Label Pediatric Use Without Clear Safety Data
Clearlax and similar PEG 3350 laxatives are approved only for short-term adult use.
However:
- Pediatric use became widespread
- Long-term studies in children were limited
- Warnings did not clearly address prolonged use risks
Failure-to-warn claims are central to many lawsuits.
Legal Basis for a Clearlax Lawsuit
Individuals pursuing a Clearlax lawsuit may rely on:
1. Failure to Warn
Alleging inadequate disclosure of potential long-term or pediatric risks.
2. Defective Design
Claiming PEG 3350 products were unreasonably dangerous.
3. Negligence
Arguing manufacturers failed to properly test safety concerns.
4. Product Liability
Seeking compensation for injuries caused by a consumer product.
Who May Qualify for a Clearlax Lawsuit?
You may qualify if:
- You or your child used Clearlax or PEG 3350 regularly
- Serious neurological or kidney symptoms developed
- Medical treatment was required
- A doctor documented ongoing complications
Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses
- Future care costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
- Parental lost wages (in pediatric cases)
A product liability attorney can evaluate your eligibility.
Statute of Limitations: Don’t Wait
Every state limits the time you have to file a product liability lawsuit.
Depending on jurisdiction:
- Filing deadlines may range from 1–4 years
- Pediatric claims may have extended timelines
Waiting too long could permanently bar recovery.
What to Do If You Suspect Clearlax Injury
- Preserve packaging and purchase records
- Document dosage and duration of use
- Obtain full medical records
- Consult an experienced product liability lawyer
Early legal evaluation strengthens your case.
Clearlax Lawsuit Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Clearlax the same as MiraLAX?
Yes. Both contain polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) and work as osmotic laxatives. Clearlax is generally a generic version of MiraLAX.
2. Is Clearlax safe for children?
Clearlax is not FDA-approved for pediatric use. Long-term safety in children remains a subject of ongoing debate and litigation.
3. What are the side effects of PEG 3350?
Reported side effects include diarrhea, bloating, electrolyte imbalance, kidney complications, and in some cases neuropsychiatric symptoms.
4. Can you sue over Clearlax side effects?
If severe health complications occurred and inadequate warnings are alleged, you may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit.
5. Is there a PEG 3350 class action lawsuit?
Various lawsuits involving PEG 3350 products have been filed, often focusing on failure-to-warn allegations and pediatric risks.
Final Thoughts: Understanding the Clearlax Lawsuit
The Clearlax lawsuit raises significant legal and medical questions about PEG 3350 laxatives. While Clearlax and MiraLAX contain the same active ingredient, litigation focuses on alleged long-term risks, impurity concerns, and insufficient safety disclosures.
If you or your child experienced serious side effects after using Clearlax, seeking legal guidance promptly may help protect your rights.
