There is no “correct” dose of Metamucil to take. Everyone may need a different amount per day for desired effect. The trick is to start with a low dose, like 1 scoop per day (or 6 pills per day). Try this for 3 or 4 days in a row and see how things go.
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.
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 typical adult Metamucil dosage for constipation is 3.4 grams (1 packet or 1 tablespoon), mixed with 8 ounces of liquid, up to 3 times a day. It's best to start with one dose per day and then increase as needed.
For Metamucil Fibre Capsules and Capsules Plus Calcium, we recommend taking them 3 times daily with at least 240 mL of liquid, as indicated. Bulk-forming fibres like psyllium husk, may affect how well medicines work. Take this product at least 2 hours before or after medicines.
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.
Overdose. Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Metamucil tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body's functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.
Serious side effects of Metamucil
Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Taking fiber supplements every day seems to be safe. Popular fiber supplements include inulin, psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, others) and methylcellulose (Citrucel). Fiber is good for the body. It helps the bowel work well and prevents constipation.
Do not take Metamucil for more than seven days in a row without a doctor's advice. Laxatives can be habit-forming if they are taken too much or for too long. If you find Metamucil is not working for you, call your doctor for advice. Also, call your doctor if your symptoms worsen or do not improve.
Using psyllium husk
When you take your evening dose you'll need to make sure you wait an hour before you go to bed – if you go to sleep too soon, this can cause a blockage in the gut. An easy habit to get into is to have Fybogel after you've eaten breakfast, and after you've eaten dinner.
Put one dose into an empty glass. Mix this product (child or adult dose) with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of water or other fluid. Stir briskly and drink promptly.
For individuals with constipation-predominant IBS, a soluble fiber supplement (Metamucil or others containing psyllium) can be helpful. Large amounts of fiber can hinder the absorption of medications, so take your medications one to two hours before the fiber supplement.
Bloating is a common side-effect of Metamucil. For new users, start by taking a small amount of Metamucil and then gradually increase to the recommended dosage to allow your system to adjust and to minimize gas and bloating. If you have tried this and you still experience bloating, talk to your doctor.
Common Metamucil side effects include gas, bloating, and nausea. It's best to take Metamucil as directed to help prevent potentially dangerous side effects, such as blockages in the intestines. Speak with your healthcare provider before adding Metamucil to your daily routine.
Unlike the other laxatives, psyllium is safe and gentle enough to use every day.
Taking Metamucil with breakfast, lunch, and dinner is the optimal time to do so if you want to feel less hungry in between meals. You will feel more satiated if you drink it while eating. Take the supplement as often as you would like throughout the day if you are using it only for general health.
Fiber is an essential component of a healthy diet that should be taken with every meal. Eaten in the morning, it helps you feel full throughout the day. Consumed before bedtime, fiber helps you sleep better. If you take fiber supplements, choose to eat them with a meal that is low in fiber and can use a boost.
Like their other products, Metamucil's gummies contain natural orange flavor and citric acid. We don't recommend Metamucil Fiber Gummies due to the additive ingredients, but we do consider this product to be healthier than Metamucil Sugar-Free Fiber Powder which we reviewed above.
In addition, psyllium husk is known to have positive effects on heart health and cholesterol levels. Studies have also shown that psyllium husk fiber is safe, well-tolerated and improves glycemic control for people with diabetes. Unlike stimulant laxatives, psyllium is gentle and not addictive.
If you eat a lot of high-fiber foods but experience slow digestion, you may still feel bloated or constipated. The slower your food moves through your digestive tract, the more time it has to absorb water and create hard, difficult-to-pass stools.
The psyllium fiber in Metamucil can do more than increase your fiber intake. Psyllium fiber can influence the “satiety cascade”—making you feel less hungry in-between your meals. * You can use Metamucil as an appetite control supplement by taking 2 rounded spoons with each meal, up to 3 times per day.