Methylcellulose

Methylcellulose is a drug to treat constipation ( constipation ) . This drug is a type of bulk forming laxative .

Methylcellulose works by forming a mass of feces or feces, causing stimulation to defecate. These drugs also increase the water content in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.

Methylcellulose trademark: Citrucel

What is Methylcellulose

class	Over-the-counter and prescription drugs
Category	Fiber supplements or bulk forming laxatives
Benefit	Overcoming constipation or constipation
Consumed by	Adults and children aged ≥6 years
Methylcellulose for pregnant and lactating women	Category N: Not yet categorized. It is not yet known whether methylcellulose is absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking this drug.
Drug form	Caplets and powder

Warning Before Consuming Methylcellulose

Methylcellulose should not be used carelessly. There are several things that need to be considered before taking this drug, including:

Do not take methylcellulose if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have.
Do not give methylcellulose to children younger than 6 years without consulting a doctor.
Consult your doctor about using methylcellulose if you have intestinal inflammation , difficulty swallowing, severe stomach pain , nausea or vomiting , or difficult bowel movements that have lasted more than 1 week.
Some methylcellulose products may contain phenylalanine, consult your doctor about their use if you have diabetes or phenylketonuria .
Consult your doctor about using methycellulosa if you are pregnant, nursing, or planning a pregnancy.
Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
Immediately see a doctor if an allergic drug reaction or overdose occurs after consuming methylcellulose.

Dosage and Rules for Use Methylcellulose

Methylcellulose is available in 500 mg caplets and 2 grams of powder per one measuring spoon. The dosage of methylcellulose for treating constipation is divided based on the age of the patient and the dosage form of the drug. The following is an explanation:

Methylcellulose caplet

Adults and children aged ≥12 years: The dose is 2 caplets per drink, which can be consumed up to 6 times a day. Take the medicine with a glass of water. The maximum dose is not more than 12 caplets a day.
Children aged 6–12 years: The dose is 1 tablet (500 mg) per drink, which can be taken up to 6 times a day. Take the medicine with a glass of water. The maximum dose is no more than 6 caplets a day.

Methylcellulose powder

Adults and children aged ≥12 years: The dose is 1 measuring spoon per drink, which is dissolved in 1 glass or about 250 ml of cold water, the drug can be taken up to 3 times a day.
Children aged 6–12 years: The dose is ½ measuring spoon per drink, which is dissolved in 1 glass or about 250 ml of cold water. The drug can be consumed up to 3 times a day.

How to Take Methylcellulose Properly

Take methylcellulose as directed by your doctor and always read the instructions and how to use it listed on the drug packaging. Avoid using methylcellulose for more than 7 days. Do not reduce or increase your dose, and take this drug for longer than recommended.

For methylcellulose caplets, swallow the medication whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the caplets.

For powdered methylcellulose, dissolve the medication in a glass of cold water, stir well, and take the medication as soon as it's dissolved. Then, drink another glass of water afterwards. Be careful when swallowing the medicine because the methylcellulose can expand in the throat and cause choking.

This drug should not be consumed at bedtime. Be careful when serving the medicine, don't inhale the medicine. The use of methylcellulose can interfere with the absorption of other drugs that you are currently taking. It's best not to take other medicines within 2 hours of taking methylcellulose.

Try to consume methylcellulose at the same time every day for maximum benefits. If you forget to take methylcellulose, it is advisable to consume it immediately if the break with the next schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.

While on treatment with methylcellulose, it is recommended that you drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, to help treat constipation and prevent dehydration.

The effects of methylcellulose drugs can usually be felt in about 12–72 hours after taking the drug. Check with your doctor if complaints of constipation have not gone away or have gotten worse after 3 days of taking methylcellulose.

Store methylcellulose in a closed container in a cool room. Do not store it in a damp place or be exposed to direct sunlight, and keep this drug out of reach of children.