Psyllium is a fiber supplement used to treat constipation or constipation. In addition, psyllium can also be used to meet daily fiber needs.
Psyllium is a fiber that comes from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. Psyllium is a bulk forming laxative which works by increasing the amount of water in the stool to make it softer, making it easier to pass.
In addition to treating constipation, psyllium combined with a low-fat diet is also sometimes used to treat high cholesterol.
Psyllium trademarks: Algadiet, G-Lo, H&H Colberry, Laxassia, Lifiber, Maximus, Mixed Vegetable Powder Drink, Vegeta Scrubber, Vegeta Herbal , Yumeslim
What is Psyllium
| class | Free medicine |
| Category | Fiber supplements or bulk forming laxatives |
| Benefit | Treat constipation and meet daily fiber needs (fiber supplements) |
| Used by | Adults and children >6 years old |
| Psyllium for pregnant and lactating women | Category B: Animal studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. It is not known whether Psyllium passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Form | Capsules and powder |
Precautions Before Taking Psyllium
The following are some things you need to pay attention to before consuming psyllium:
- Do not take psyllium if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have had or currently have intestinal obstruction , appendicitis, stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer, rectal bleeding, or difficulty swallowing .
- 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.
- Do not give laxatives to children aged <6 years or the elderly, without consulting a doctor.
- See your doctor right away if you experience a drug allergic reaction, serious side effect, or overdose, after taking psyllium.
Dosage and Directions for Use Psyllium
The dose of psyllium is determined based on the patient's age, condition, and body's response to the drug. In general, the dose of pyllium to treat constipation based on the patient's age is as follows:
- Adults and children aged ≥12 years : 2.5–30 grams divided into several doses.
- Children aged 6–11 years : 1.25–15 grams, 1 divided into several servings.
In addition to overcoming constipation, psyllium is also believed to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease due to high cholesterol. The psyllium dosage for this condition is 7–10.2 grams per day.
How to Take Psyllium Properly
Use psyllium 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.
Psyllium capsules can be taken before or after meals. Use plain water to swallow the psyllium capsule. Try to take the drug at the same time every day for maximum treatment.
For powdered psyllium, dissolve 1 sachet of psyllium powder in water or fruit juice according to the recommended dosage on the label. Stir the solution thoroughly before drinking.
To help treat constipation, you are advised to drink more water, exercise, or eat foods that contain fiber or sorbitol, such as vegetables and fruits, while undergoing treatment with psyllium.
Try to take psyllium at the same time every day for the maximum effect of the treatment. If you forget to take psyllium, consume it immediately if the next schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.
Store psyllium at room temperature and in a closed container to avoid direct sunlight. Keep this drug out of reach of children.
Psyllium Interactions with Other Drugs
There are several drug interaction effects that can occur if psyllium is used with other medicines, namely decreasing the effectiveness of sodium picosulfate or metoclopramide. To prevent interaction effects, always tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
Psyllium Side Effects and Dangers
Some of the side effects that can occur after consuming psyllium are:
- Bloated
- stomach cramps
- Constipation
Check with your doctor if the side effects above don't go away or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if a drug allergic reaction appears which can be characterized by certain symptoms, such as the appearance of an itchy rash on the skin, swelling of the eyelids or lips, or difficulty breathing.
In addition, you should also see a doctor immediately if you experience more serious side effects, such as:
- Nausea, vomiting , or severe stomach pain
- Constipation that lasts more than 1 week
- Rectal bleeding
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing