Metamucil contains psyllium husk (from the plant Plantago ovata ), a concentrated source of soluble fiber which can be used to increase one's dietary fiber intake. When used as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, 7g per day of soluble fiber from psyllium husk (the amount in 3 doses of Metamucil) may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Each dose contains approximately 3.4 grams of psyllium husk (or 2.4 grams of soluble fiber). A listing of ingredients and nutrition information is available in the listing of Metamucil Fiber Laxative in the Nonprescription Drug section. Metamucil Smooth Texture Sugar-Free Regular Flavor contains no sugar and no artifical sweeteners. Metamucil Smooth Texture Sugar-Free Orange Flavor contains aspartame (phenylalanine content of 25 mg per dose). Metamucil powdered products are gluten-free.

Actions:   Metamucil Dietary Fiber Supplement can be used as a concentrated source of soluble fiber to increase the dietary intake of fiber. Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that include 7g per day of soluble fiber from psyllium husk, as in Metamucil, may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol.

Claims:   Clinical studies have shown that 7 grams of soluble fiber from psyllium husk, the amount in three doses of Metamucil, may help reduce the risk of heart disease when part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol. For laxative indications and directions for use, see Metamucil Fiber Laxative in the Nonprescription Drugs Section.

Contraindications:   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 Metamucil as part of a cholesterol-lowering program. If taking Metamucil for contipation relief, patients are advised to consult a physician if constipation persists for longer than one week, as this may be a sign of a 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.

Precaution:    Notice to Health Care Professionals: 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.

Dosage and Administration:   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 under 12 consult a docutor. The appropriate dose should be mixed with 8 oz. of liquid (e.g., cool water, fruit juice, milk) following the label instructions. The product 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 three times per day.

This product, like other bulk fibers, may affect how well 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.

How Supplied:   Powder: canisters and cartons of single-dose packets. For complete ingredients and sizes for each version, see Metamucil Table 1, page ___, Nonprescription Drug section.