Metamucil contains psyllium husk (from the plant Plantago ovata ), a bulk forming, natural therapeutic fiber for restoring and maintaining regularity when recommended by a physician. Metamucil contains no chemical stimulants and does not disrupt normal bowel function. Each dose contains approximately 3.4 grams of psyllium husk (or about 2.3 grams of soluble fiber). Inactive ingredients, sodium, calcium, potassium, calories, carbohydrate, and dietary fiber content are shown in the following table for all versions and flavors. Metamucil Smooth Texture Sugar-Free Regular flavor contains no sugar and no artificial sweeteners; Metamucil Smooth Texture Sugar-Free Orange Flavor contains aspartame (phenylalanine content per dose is 25 mg). Metamucil powdered products are gluten-free. Metamucil Fiber Wafers contain gluten: Apple Crisp contains 0.7g/dose, Cinnamon Spice contains 0.5g/dose. Each two-wafer dose contains 5 grams of fat.
The active ingredient in Metamucil is psyllium husk, a natural fiber which promotes elimination due to its bulking effect in the colon. This bulking effect is due to both the water-holding capacity of undigested fiber and the increased bacterial mass following partial fiber digestion. These actions result in enlargement of the lumen of the colon and softer stool, thereby decreasing intraluminal pressure and straining, and speeding colonic transit in constipated patients.
Metamucil is indicated for the treatment of occasional constipation, and when recommended by a physician, for chronic constipation and constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, convalescence, senility and pregnancy. Pregnancy: Category B. If considering use of Metamucil as part of a cholesterol-lowering program, see Metamucil Dietary Fiber Supplement in Dietary Supplement Section.
Intestinal obstruction, fecal impaction, allergy to any component.
Patients are advised they should consult a doctor before using this product if they have abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or rectal bleeding, if they have noticed a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of two weeks, or if they are considering use of this product as part of a cholesterol-lowering program. Patients are advised to consult a physician if constipation persists for longer than one week, as this may be a sign of serious medical condition. Patients are cautioned that taking this product without adequate fluid may cause it to swell and block the throat or esophagus and may cause choking. They should not take the product if they have difficulty in swallowing. If they experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing or breathing after taking this product, they are advised to seek immediate medical attention. Psyllium products may cause allergic reaction in people sensitive to inhaled or ingested psyllium. Keep out of the reach of children. In case of accidental overdose, seek professional assistance or contact a poison control center immediately.
Notice to Health Care Professional: To minimize the potential for allergic reaction, health care professionals who frequently dispense powdered psyllium products should avoid inhaling airborne dust while dispensing these products. Handling and Dispensing: To minimize generating airborne dust, spoon product from the canister into a glass according to label directions.
The usual adult dosage is one rounded teaspoon, or tablespoon, depending on the product version. Some versions are available in single-dose packets. For children (6 to 12 years old) use ½ the adult dose; for children under 6, consult a doctor. The appropriate dose should be mixed with 8 oz. of liquid (e.g., cool water, fruit juice, milk) following the label instructions. Metamucil Fiber Wafers should be consumed with 8 oz. of liquid. The product (child or adult dose) should be taken with at least 8 oz. (a full glass) of water or other fluid. Taking this product without enough liquid may cause choking (see ). Metamucil can be taken one to three times per day, depending on the need and response. It may require continued use for 2 to 3 days to provide optimal benefit. Generally produces effect in 12-72 hours.
Laxatives, including bulk fibers, may affect how well other medicines work. If you are taking a prescription medicine by mouth, take this product at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after the prescribed medicine. As your body adjusts to increased fiber intake, you may experience changes in bowel habits or minor bloating.
Powder: canisters and cartons of single-dose packets. Wafers: cartons of single dose packets. (See Table 1)
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