Chinese Journal of Pharmacovigilance ›› 2026, Vol. 23 ›› Issue (8): 931-933.
DOI: 10.19803/j.1672-8629.20260120

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Two cases of hematemesis caused by polyethylene glycol electrolytes powder (Ⅱ) during bowel preparation

Zhang Yumao1, Liu Junbo1, Luo Qianjiang2, Tan Binying3, Deng Bin4, Xing Weiqing3#, Li Yuzhen1,*   

  1. 1Department of Pharmacy, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen Guangdong 518033, China;
    2Department of Gastroenterology, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen Guangdong 518033, China;
    3Shenzhen Institute of Pharmacovigilance and Risk Management, Shenzhen Guangdong 518000, China;
    4Guangdong Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Center, Guangzhou Guangdong 510080, China
  • Received:2026-02-10 Online:2026-08-15 Published:2026-08-17

Abstract: Objective To analyze the clinical characteristics of hematemesis induced by polyethylene glycol electrolytes powder (Ⅱ) for bowel preparation, explore the possible mechanisms and risk factors, and provide references for safe clinical medication. Methods Two cases of hematemesis due to severe vomiting after administration were retrospectively analyzed. Based on a literature review, the mechanisms, causality, potential triggers, and preventive measures were explored. Results Correlation analysis showed that hematemesis was associated with polyethylene glycol electrolytes powder (Ⅱ) in these two patients. Symptoms improved after drug discontinuation, acid suppression and symptomatic treatment with favorable prognosis. Conclusion Despite its safety, polyethylene glycol electrolytes powder may cause severe vomiting, hematemesis or even Mallory-Weiss Syndrome. Physicians should evaluate risk factors beforehand and control administration speed to prevent severe vomiting and ensure safe medication.

Key words: Polyethylene Glycol Electrolytes Powder (Ⅱ), Bowel Preparation, Hematemesis, Mallory-Weiss Syndrome (MWS), Adverse Drug Reaction

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