Pectin

Pectin or pectin is a fiber supplement used to help lower high cholesterol. In addition, pectin combined with kaolin can also be used to treat diarrhea.

Pectin is a natural fiber that can be found in fruits, such as apples, oranges, lemons and limes. Pectin works by binding to fatty substances in the digestive tract and excreting them in the stool. This drug can also add mass or bulk to the stool.

Pectin trademarks:  Arcapec, Bio Plus, Entrostop, Koltin, Lifiber, Nature's Plus Acidophilus with Pectin

What is Pectin

Warning Before Consuming Pectin

Even though pectin is sold freely, there are several things you need to pay attention to before consuming pectin:

• Do not take pectin if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have.
• Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
• Consult a doctor before using pectin if you have  cancer .
• Tell your doctor if you have  intestinal obstruction  or digestive tract disease.
• Immediately see a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction or overdose after consuming pectin.

Dosage and Rules for Using Pectin

The dose of pectin is determined based on the patient's age, condition and body's response to the drug. In general, here are the doses of pectin based on the purpose of treatment:

Purpose: Lowering high cholesterol levels

• Adults:  15 grams per day

Purpose: Overcoming diarrhea

Usually pectin will be combined with kaolin to relieve diarrhea. For products containing 1 gram of kaolin and 50 mg of pectin in 5 ml, the dosage is as follows:

• Adult: 15–45 ml, consumed after every bowel movement, with a maximum treatment duration of 2 days.
• Children aged 6-12 years: 10-20 ml, consumed after every bowel movement, with a maximum treatment duration of 2 days.

How to Consume Pectin Properly

Use pectin as directed by your doctor and don't forget to read the information on the drug packaging. Do not add or reduce the dose, and do not use the drug for more than the recommended time.

Pectin capsules or tablets can be consumed before or after meals. Use plain water to swallow pectin capsules or tablets. Do not split, chew, or crush the medication. Try to take the medicine at the same time every day for maximum treatment.

For powdered pectin, dissolve 1 tablespoon of pectin in water or fruit juice according to the dosage recommended on the label. Stir or shake the solution thoroughly before drinking.

Pectin in the form of syrup needs to be shaken before consumption. Use the measuring spoon provided on the package so that the dosage is correct.

If you forget to consume pectin, consume it immediately if the next schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.

Store pectin at room temperature and in a closed container to avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Keep this drug out of reach of children.

Interactions of Pectin with Other Drugs

There are several drug interaction effects that can occur if pectin is used together with other drugs, namely decreasing the levels and effectiveness of the drugs lovastatin , beta carotene, digoxin , and tetracycline class antibiotics , such as minocycline.

To prevent interaction effects, always tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.

Pectin Side Effects and Dangers

Pectin rarely causes side effects if consumed according to the rules of use. However, in some people side effects can occur, such as:

• stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Bloated
• Diarrhoea

Check with your doctor if you experience the side effects mentioned above. Immediately to the doctor if you experience an allergic reaction after consuming pectin.