This medication is used to treat constipation. It increases the bulk in your stool, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines. It also works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making the stool softer and easier to pass.
The active ingredient, psyllium husk, is a soluble viscous fibre that absorbs and holds moisture. This causes the psyllium to swell, supplying the necessary bulk to help form an easily eliminated stool. Metamucil will not cause immediate evacuation but generally produces an effect in 12 to 72 hours.
Metamucil (psyllium husk) is commonly used to relieve constipation. It's available over-the-counter (OTC). And since Metamucil actually refers to a line of products, many versions of it are available. It's often recommended as a possible first-choice option for treating constipation.
Metamucil is made with psyllium husk, a plant-based fiber that helps promote digestive health and regularity. * It also acts as a non-stimulant laxative that relieves occasional constipation, generally helping you produce a bowel movement in 12 to 72 hours.
There's no evidence that daily use of fiber supplements — such as psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, others) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) — is harmful. Fiber has a number of health benefits, including normalizing bowel function and preventing constipation.
A: Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil fiber as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 8 ounces of water or liquid per serving) is consumed. We recommend taking Metamucil between one and three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil.
If the daily recommended amount of fluid is not drunk, then Metamucil could cause severe constipation, especially in people who are already dehydrated. Some products may contain sugar, sodium, or phenylalanine (phenylketonurics should avoid).
stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting; trouble swallowing; or. a sudden change in bowel habits lasting longer than 2 weeks.
In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.
To help slow down stools, take Imodium or Lomotil at the time your doctor or nurse suggests. Taking medicinal fiber, such as psyllium (Metamucil®) or methylcellulose (Citrucel®) with two ounces of water slows the movement in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The fiber absorbs excess fluid like a sponge.
Can eating more fiber help with constipation? Yes. Fiber is the part of plant food that is not digested. There are two kinds of fiber: soluble and insoluble.
Drink more water
"You should aim to drink between eight and 10 glasses of water or non-caffeinated drinks each day. And if you already are, two to four extra glasses of water a day may help ease constipation," says Dr.
Dulcolax® Liquid Laxative works naturally with the water in your body (stimulant free) to provide gentle, fast-acting constipation relief in as little as 30 minutes (30 minutes to 6 hours).
Eating When you Have Constipation. Try these things to relieve your constipation: Do not skip meals. Avoid processed or fast foods, such as white breads, pastries, doughnuts, sausage, fast-food burgers, potato chips, and French fries.
Any time of day is a great day to take Metamucil's psyllium husk, so long as you drink plenty of water with it (at least 8 oz). Start with one serving per day, then gradually increase your daily servings each week to reach your health goals.
Metamucil typically takes 2-3 days to work and it should not be taken before bed (8). You should always follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to take it.
No matter which form you take—remember to take it daily. Start with one serving daily of Metamucil at first, then gradually increase to your desired intake. You may experience gas or bloating in the first few days as your body adjusts to the added fiber.
The psyllium fiber in Metamucil helps trap and remove the waste that weighs you down, so you can start to feel lighter* in two weeks. I've been taking one rounded teaspoon every morning by mixing it into an 8-ounce glass of cold water. You can use other liquids like 100% fruit juice or your favorite smoothie.