Parenting
Should Parents be Concerned About Miralax?
Last week we received a number of questions about a statement released by a group of parents of children with disparate neuropsychological issues. The parents claimed that their children’s symptoms began after they began taking the over the counter laxative Miralax (polyethylene glycol 3350) and that the medication was at fault. Miralax is approved only for use in those age 17 or above, and the parents have expressed concern that they were instructed to give their children the laxative not approved for use in their age group.
This was cause for concern for many parents, especially those whose children have dealt with constipation. To answer our reader questions we reached out to François Lavallée, a pharmacist in the province of Quebec, Canada and who is also the father of two young children. Matthew Hartings, a professor of chemistry at American University in Washington, DC (and a dad as well), helped out with some of the chemistry.
We have received a number of questions from concerned parents about this story. Thank you for taking the time out of your schedule to speak with me.
I can see why parents would be concerned. I’m a parent myself and nobody wants to put their kids at unnecessary risk. I don’t doubt that the children of the parents coming forward have neuropsychological issues. When you are the parent to a child with neuropsychological issues, depending on the severity, it is very hard both physically and emotionally. I think what they are doing is noble because they want to prevent other children from experiencing something similar, but I’m not sure that the chemical component in Miralax, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350, is what has caused the symptoms they are describing.
Right now the symptoms that are being disclosed publicly by the parents are a little vague and aren’t consistent with each other. Some describe, the development of aggression and paranoia, others describe motor issues such as ticks. Usually when symptoms are caused by something children are exposed to there’s an identifiable pattern. It would be so simple if it were the case here, we could just ban that substance and be done with it.
In reality, considering the diverse symptoms reported at this time there is probably more than one cause. What makes it more difficult is that in some cases the individuals are now adults and are claiming the exposure as toddlers caused their symptoms. It is incredibly difficult to pinpoint a cause ten or fifteen years after the onset of symptoms. There may have genetic predispositions to some of these issues or the symptoms may have been acquired through another exposure through food, air, water, or other drugs.
I think parents need to exercise caution when they read things like this online. These articles often lead to really shocking information that’s completely out of context. The important context is usually at the bottom, but they know that most people don’t read articles all the way through. These websites prey on parents’ fears for clicks, and can cause them to panic when they don’t have to.
I think part of what makes this so shocking is the claim that the same chemical that’s in anti-freeze is also in a laxative that parents have been giving their children. Can you tell me a little more about PEG 3350 and antifreeze?
First, it’s important to know that this is not the same chemical that’s in antifreeze, but it is easy to confuse the two. Their names sound very similar. A number of the articles have confused the two chemicals which is why I really think parents need to exercise caution when reading things like this online.
Ethylene glycol is the chemical that is in antifreeze, it is highly toxic and we see kids sometimes ingest it accidentally if it’s in the garage or not properly secured because it has a sweet taste to it. Polyethylene glycol or PEG starts with “poly”, a prefix meaning “many” or “multiple”. In this case, it means many ethylene glycol molecules linked together, which makes it a different chemical, with different properties. As you can see here, the two chemicals have the same basic ingredient, simply repeated “n” times in the case of PEG:
Ethylene glycol: C2H4O + H2O → HO–CH2CH2–OH
Polyethylene glycol: HOCH2CH2OH + n(CH2CH2O) → HO(CH2CH2O)n+1H
Even though it is the same basic molecule as ethylene glycol repeated many times, PEG molecules have very different properties, depending on how many are linked together. The number 3350 refers to the weight of the molecule, which is an indication of its size, in this case, it’s a large molecule. PEG can be as small as 400 and as large as 15,000, but 3350 is a large molecule. The larger a molecule, the less likely it is to be absorbed by the body.
The weight of the molecule is very important. PEG 3350 behaves differently than PEG 400 does, and differently than Ethylene glycol does. What is applicable to one molecule may not apply to another. PEG 3350 is a very stable molecule, which means that it doesn’t change its state (or break down) easily.
Is it possible through some mechanism, that Polyethylene glycol is responsible for the development of the neuropsychological issues in children?
I would be very shocked if the symptoms were caused by PEG 3350. Because of PEG 3350s size, our body isn’t able to absorb it. Given these properties, it is highly unlikely that it causes these neurological symptoms. I did a review of the literature before we spoke and there’s nothing that supports PEG 3350 with lasting side effects or that explains how it could potentially cause it. Most reported side effects are linked to its laxative properties: abdominal discomfort, cramps, bloating, diarrhea.
The hypothesis put forward by some is that if improperly stored PEG 3350 breaks down into ethylene glycol and that this degradation combined with prolonged exposure in chronically constipated children causes the symptoms being reported. I am skeptical of this hypothesis due to the stability of PEG 3350. As I mentioned before PEG 3350 is very stable, so it would take a lot for it to break down due to improper storage.
I do understand that in 2008 trace amounts of ethylene glycol (15 µg/ml) were found in eight bottles of Miralax. This is a very small amount and is essentially harmless to an adult. But the question is, is that amount enough to cause problems in a child, especially if the child is exposed daily and over a long period of time (for example years). This is not something that I know the answer to as ethylene glycol toxicity is usually seen in the hospital, so I asked Matthew Hartings, a professor of chemistry at American University in Washington, DC.
Matthew confirmed what I thought, which is that the dose found in the bottles is not enough to be toxic to a child in a single dose. Matthew calculates that for a child to consume a toxic dose of ethylene glycol at the doses found in the bottles, they would need to consume 1L of the powdered product. The product isn’t available for retail consumer purchases in packages that large. He also says that ethylene glycol does not bioaccumulate so it’s unlikely that prolonged exposure to ethylene glycol could cause problems through that mechanism.
Matthew and I both agree that the ethylene glycol should not be in the bottles period and it’s not a good thing and it’s unacceptable that the manufacturer couldn’t account for how it got there. It’s never a good thing when something that shouldn’t be in a product winds up in it, even if the dose isn’t enough to cause harm.
So what exactly does PEG 3350 do, and why is it in laxatives?
It’s an osmotic laxative, which means that it attracts water. Our intestines are very good at absorbing water, which is part of their jobs, but when a child (or an adult) becomes constipated their stools become very hard with very little water in them, and it makes them difficult and sometimes painful to pass. PEG 3350 holds water in the intestines which allow the stool to soften, which makes it easier to pass normally. It is a passive laxative, which means that it doesn’t cause the intestines to contract or actively push stool through. This is why it has been used so much for children. It is important to note that the main reason why it can express an osmotic force to retain water in the intestines is that it isn’t absorbed by the body. It goes right through, from one end to the other.
Part of the concern seems to be that a medication that is only indicated for adults has been used for children, why has it been recommended off-label for use in children?
We knew that it is safe as a one-time use to empty a child’s bowels before a procedure. As we know it is safe in a large dose at one time, some doctors and pharmacists started to extrapolate that knowledge and say, maybe it is safe in a small dose over a longer period of time.
At the beginning of my career, I didn’t see PEG 3350 used very much in children in part because the product was new to the market. At first I started seeing individual clinics using it and then [a large area pediatric hospital] started using it, shortly after it became much more common.
This isn’t to say that PEG 3350 hasn’t been studied in children. It has been studied extensively and has shown to be safe and more effective than a placebo. But it hasn’t gone through the same level of trials that we require before approving a drug for adults. I know in the United States the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is funding a study of the long-term safety of the use of PEG 3350 in children with chronic constipation, at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), but I don’t know what prompted the study. I see it as a good thing that can help confirm safety in longer-term use. The more studies we have, the more confident we can be in a product’s safety.
I think a lot of parents are wondering why doctors are recommending medication for children that isn’t approved for children.
As you know, it’s very difficult to get approval to test drugs on children. It’s pretty obvious why. Would you allow someone to test a drug on your child? You don’t know what the drug will do to your child. No one would sign their child up for that. It’s not ethical, so we don’t test drugs on children in large trials. Unfortunately what this means is that we sort of test things in the real world. We take that little bit of information that we have in one area and we extrapolate it and then we report on what we find until we have enough data to have something similar to a clinical trial, then there’s usually a reclassification.
Additionally, and this is unfortunate to say, there isn’t a lot of money in pediatric drugs for large pharmaceutical companies. Kids are only kids for a little while, so it doesn’t offer a good return on investment for them. Another deterrent for companies to invest and develop drugs for kids is that they don’t like to be sued, so they will usually go for the safest patients to treat: Adults with functioning kidneys and liver. Kids, the elderly, pregnant women, people with kidney or liver disease, are all populations that are less researched, so treatment is trickier.
As companies hate to get sued, they will put on their labels only what they studied and they know it is safe. That is common sense. But when a label says “Use for no more than 7 days without a doctor’s advice”, it doesn’t mean the product is poison if used for 8 days. It means if you need to use it for longer, you might have a more serious issue and should be examined by a doctor. Once you’ve been examined and it has been confirmed that everything is in order, under the doctor’s advice, you can use the product for longer, as long as there is a proper follow-up.
What are some things that parents can do to manage constipation at home if they don’t want to use an over the counter laxative like Miralax?
The most important thing is that parents talk to their doctor or pharmacist first if they have concerns about chronic constipation in their children. They best know your child’s medical history and are most familiar with the various treatment options.
With that said, there are some first-line defense options that parents can try at home if they have a concern about acute constipation. These are things like prune or pear juice, or simply adding more of these fruits into their child’s diet, which I know can be difficult if their child is a picky eater. They can also ensure their child gets plenty of water and plenty of exercise, as those both really help with constipation.
Originally Posted at TheScientificParent.org
Parenting
The Top 10 G-Rated Movies of All Time: A Cinematic Journey for All Ages
G-rated films are magical. They appeal to children and have a timeless charm that can captivate audiences of all ages.
From breathtaking animation to heartfelt storytelling, G-rated movies uniquely evoke emotions and leave a lasting impression.
We’ve gathered a list of the top 10 G-rated movies that have stood the test of time and continue entertaining viewers worldwide, according to IMDB.
Top 10 G-Rated Movies of All-Time
- The Lion King (1994)
At the top of our list is Disney’s “The Lion King.” This animated masterpiece has captured the hearts of millions. The film’s memorable characters, powerful soundtrack, and the gripping story will have you humming “Hakuna Matata” long after the credits roll.
- Toy Story (1995)
The groundbreaking “Toy Story” was Pixar’s first feature film and the first entirely computer-animated movie. This heartwarming tale of friendship between toys Woody and Buzz Lightyear is an engaging adventure filled with humor, emotion, and unforgettable moments that still resonate with audiences today.
- The Wizard of Oz (1939)
A classic film transcending generations, “The Wizard of Oz” is a timeless tale of friendship, courage, and the power of imagination. With its iconic songs, whimsical characters, and vibrant Technicolor world, this magical journey to the land of Oz will forever hold a special place in the hearts of movie lovers.
- Mary Poppins (1964)
Julie Andrews’ magical performance as Mary Poppins has delighted audiences for decades. With its memorable songs like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “A Spoonful of Sugar” and whimsical adventures, the musical shows that anything is possible with a little imagination.
- The Sound of Music (1965)
This beloved musical, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Austrian Alps, follows the heartwarming story of the von Trapp family and their governess, Maria. “The Sound of Music” offers a perfect blend of unforgettable songs, captivating performances, and an inspiring tale of love and resilience during a time of turmoil.
- Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a visually stunning masterpiece with unforgettable songs and mesmerizing animation. The film’s timeless story of love, understanding, and redemption has captivated audiences for decades.
- The Little Mermaid (1989)
“The Little Mermaid” is a Disney classic that inspires viewers to explore new worlds and follow their dreams. The film’s catchy tunes, lovable characters, and captivating animation tell the story of Ariel, a curious and free-spirited mermaid who dreams of life on land.
- Aladdin (1992)
Disney’s “Aladdin” is an enchanting film that takes viewers on a thrilling magic carpet ride through the mystical city of Agrabah. The film’s memorable characters, witty humor, and iconic soundtrack have made it a beloved classic that still manages to charm audiences with its tale of love, adventure, and the power of true friendship
- Finding Nemo (2003)
Pixar’s “Finding Nemo” is a heartwarming tale of a father’s unwavering love for his son. This visually stunning underwater adventure, filled with lovable characters and important life lessons, showcases the importance of family, determination, and the bonds that connect us all.
- Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Rounding off our list is another Pixar gem, “Monsters, Inc.” This imaginative film takes us into the world of monsters, where best friends Mike and Sulley discover that laughter is more powerful than fear. With its clever humor, engaging story, and endearing characters, “Monsters, Inc.” is a true testament to the power of friendship and creativity.
Conclusion:
G-rated movies are beloved by audiences of all ages for their timeless stories and unforgettable characters. These top 10 G-rated movies have left an indelible mark on the hearts of movie lovers worldwide and continue to be cherished for generations to come.
Parenting
What Are The Best Colors For Family Pictures Outside?
Picture this: It’s a bright summer day, you’re wearing your best clothes, and your family has gathered together outside for some pictures. Now, what color is best to wear?
This post is meant to give you an idea of the best colors for family pictures outside. It can be tricky trying to figure out what colors will best show the best family pictures outside. Because there are so many different colors, it can be difficult to find out what will best show off your best features.
This is a hard question because every person has his or her best color for photos, which means that everyone should come up with their best colors for pictures outside.
Best colors for outside family pictures.
Navy, cream, and tan
A color scheme for family photos that works in any season is navy, cream, and tan, which are timeless and work well in any weather. The cream and navy colors go well with the spring pastels and bright greens. They also look good with the green grass and trees in a park.
Coral and navy
When it comes to color schemes, most of them have one or two bright colors mixed with one or two “neutral” colors. The outfit’s main color is coral. Navy, gray, white, and other neutral colors help to ground and balance the bright coral in this outfit. They also help to make the coral look less bright.
Wine, cream, and gold
If you want to take a holiday family picture, this color scheme will work well. When we think about holiday family photos, the colors red and green are often the first things that come to mind. For pictures of Christmas, go to the site. However, if you do plan to use them, a wine, cream, and gold color scheme will put you right in the Christmas spirit.
Pink, tan, and cream
The colors that people like the most are pink, cream, and tan. Photos of the family on the beach are good for. Here’s what you should wear on a trip with your family: for It is very simple and monochromatic. The soft, pale pink color of this family set is almost like a neutral. There are a lot of shades of tan and cream.
Peach, blue, and denim
It’s a good idea to use peach, blue, and denim in your family photos in the springtime. Peach goes well with the pastel-colored flowers that bloom in Northeast Ohio in the spring. As a neutral, jeans keep the outfit from becoming too bright with the new spring colors.
Red, white and blue
This blue, white, red, and blue color scheme feels right for a Fourth of July family picture. Because red is so attention-grabbing, it can be hard to work within photos because of this. I think it’s great for making eye-catching family portraits. If you want to use red in your color scheme, think about where your meeting will be. It would be best if the backdrop was neutral-colored, like at the beach or in city downtown. This color scheme is why even though there is a lot of greenery, your picture might have a Christmas feel.
Things to consider when picking the best color of clothes for family photos
The location:
As soon as you figure out which colors are best for the season, narrow them down to just a few based on where the shoot is taking place.
When it comes to urban themes, bright colors work well, but they don’t look good in a field or with trees and grass around them.
In the same way, don’t use pale pastels when you’re in front of a light background, such as the wall of a building or structure. This goes for dark backgrounds, too.
The colors of your home:
Look at the colors in the place where the photos will be shown. If all you see are muted and soft colors, there’s no need to be bold with your clothes. There is no doubt that the opposite is true, too.
The skin tone:
They look best with warm colors like brown and yellow and warm shades of red and orange and brown and yellow and orange and reddish-purple and reddish-purple and cream.
If you want to look good, don’t wear jewel tones or icy shades. Make sure you don’t wear orange and red near your skin.
Top tips to get the colors right for family pictures!
A color that doesn’t match one of your family members’ skin tones but you still want to stay in your chosen palette? Choose a top and pair it with a bottom from your chosen palette.
Consider looking at store displays for ideas. Typically, the windows show off the season’s most fashionable clothes, as well as the best colors in the clothes.
In order to add a little color to your neutral palette, have one member of the family wear a brighter shade, or even a different shade.
It’s important not to go overboard with your desire to add color.
With different textures and accessories, like belts and scarves, you can make the look even more interesting.
Instead of matching, try to add something to each other. This isn’t just true for colors, but also for different styles of clothes. So, if most of you are wearing jeans, add a dress or two to make things even.
As parents, it is important to choose clothes that are not only in the right colors but also the most comfortable. So you won’t have to deal with kids who are fidgety and angry when they want to undress.
Final thoughts
When you are choosing the best colors for family pictures outside, it is best to look at what other people are wearing in the photographs. You do not want your group to look bland or have an entirely different color scheme from everyone else in the photos. This could cause confusion over who belongs with whom.
If you have a hard time picking the best colors for family pictures outside, maybe even the best colors for family photos in general take a look at the best color combinations for group photos.
Activities
10 Best Dandruff Shampoo For Kids For A Dandruff-Free Scalp
Best Dandruff Shampoo For Kids
best dandruff shampoo for kids-image from pixabay by SocialButterflyMMG
best shampoo-image from pixabay by Igorrovyannykov
Factors to consider while choosing the best dandruff shampoo for kids
Price
Fragrance
Packaging
Natural ingredients
The oiliness of the scalp:
Skin type
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