Wheat dextrin is a fiber supplement to meet daily fiber needs and treat constipation. Wheat dextrin is a water soluble fiber supplement made from wheat dextrin.
Wheat dextrin works by increasing the water content in the feces, triggering bowel movements, and speeding up the process of excretion of feces. This fiber supplement can also be used as an additional ingredient in cooking.
Trademarks of wheat dextrin: -
What is Wheat Dextrin
| class | Free medicine |
| Category | Fiber supplements or bulk- building laxatives |
| Benefit | Meet daily fiber needs and overcome constipation |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Wheat dextrin for pregnant and lactating women |
Category N: Not yet categorized.
Wheat dextrin is believed to be safe for breastfeeding mothers if it is consumed according to doctor's recommendations and the rules printed on the packaging. |
| Drug form | Powders, tablets and chewable tablets |
Warning Before Consuming Wheat Dextrin
There are several things you need to pay attention to before consuming wheat dextrin, namely:
- Do not take wheat dextrin if you are allergic to this drug. If you are in doubt, consult your doctor first.
- Consult your doctor about using wheat dextrin if you have a sore or stricture in your esophagus, difficulty swallowing , stomach ulcers, intestinal or digestive tract obstruction, or fecal impaction.
- Consult your doctor about using wheat dextrin if you are pregnant, nursing, or planning a pregnancy.
- Consult your doctor about using wheat dextrin if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Immediately see a doctor if an allergic reaction or overdose occurs after consuming wheat dextrin.
Dosage and Rules for Using Wheat Dextrin
The dosage of wheat dextrin varies, depending on the age of the patient and the intended use. The following is the dosage for using wheat dextrin based on the form of the drug:
Wheat dextrin powder
Purpose: Meet daily fiber needs (as a fiber supplement)
- Adults: 2 measuring spoons which is equivalent to 4 grams, 3 times a day. The powder can be added to drinks or food.
- Children aged 6–11 years: 1 measuring spoon which is equivalent to 2 grams, 3 times a day. The powder can be added to drinks or food.
Purpose: Overcoming constipation
- Adults: 2 measuring spoons which is equivalent to 3.5 grams, 3 times a day. Dosage should not be more than 6 measuring spoons or 10.5 grams per day.
- Children aged 6–11 years: 1 measuring spoon which is equivalent to 1.75 grams, 3 times a day. Dosage should not exceed 3 teaspoons or 5.25 grams per day.
Wheat dextrin tablet
Purpose: Overcoming constipation
- Adult: 3 tablets equivalent to 3 grams, 3 times a day. Dosage should not be more than 9 tablets per day.
- Children aged 6–11 years: 1.5 tablets equivalent to 1.5 grams, 3 times a day. Dosage should not be more than 4.5 tablets per day.
How to Consume Wheat Dextrin Properly
Before consuming wheat dextrin, read the rules for use listed on the product packaging. If you are unsure or have certain medical conditions, discuss with your doctor about dosage, product choices, and how to use them according to your condition.
Consume wheat dextrin according to the recommended dosage. Do not increase or decrease your dose without consulting your doctor first.
Wheat dextrin can be taken with or without food. Powdered wheat dextrin can be mixed with drinks or food, including yogurt or pudding. But it is not recommended to mix wheat dextrin with carbonated or fizzy drinks.
You are advised to always consume enough water while undergoing treatment with wheat dextrin.
Try to consume wheat dextrin at the same time every day for maximum treatment effect. If you forget to take wheat dextrin, consume it immediately if the next schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.
Store wheat dextrin at room temperature and in a closed container to avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Keep medicine out of reach of children.
Interactions of Wheat Dextrin with Other Drugs
The following are a number of interaction effects that can be caused if wheat dextrin is used with other drugs:
- Interference with the effects of fluxyglucose F-18 in radiological examinations
- Decreased effectiveness of lactulose in treating portal-systemic encephalopathy
Side Effects and Dangers of Wheat Dextrin
If taken according to the recommended dosage, wheat dextrin supplements rarely cause side effects. However, under some conditions, wheat dextrin can cause side effects in the form of:
- Bloated
- Fart a lot
- Abdominal pain or cramps
Check with your doctor if you experience the side effects mentioned above. Immediately consult a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction after consuming wheat dextrin.