Psyllium is a fiber supplement that is 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 (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
| group | Free medicine |
| Category | Fiber supplements or mass-forming laxatives (bulk forming laxative) |
| 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:Studies in animal experiments have not shown any risk to the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Psyllium is not known to be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Shape | Capsules and powder |
Precautions Before Taking Psyllium
The following are some things to consider before taking psyllium:
- Do not take psyllium if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had intestinal obstruction, appendicitis, stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, 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 < 6 years of age or the elderly, without consulting a doctor.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic drug reaction, serious side effect, or overdose, after taking psyllium.
Dosage and Use of Psyllium
The dose of psyllium is determined based on the patient's age, condition, and the patient's response to the drug. In general, the dosage of pyllium to treat constipation based on the patient's age is as follows:
- Adults and children 12 years old: 2.5–30 grams divided into several doses.
- Children aged 6–11 years: 1.25–15 grams, 1 divided in several doses.
In addition to treating constipation, psyllium is also believed to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease due to high cholesterol. The dose of psyllium for this condition is 7–10.2 grams per day.
How to Take Psyllium Correctly
Use psyllium as recommended by your doctor and don't forget to read the description on the medicine package. Do not increase or decrease the dose, and do not use the drug more than the recommended timeframe.
Psyllium capsules can be taken before or after meals. Use water to swallow the psyllium capsules. Try to take the drug at the same time every day for maximum treatment.
For powdered psyllium, dissolve 1 sachet Add psyllium powder to water or fruit juice according to the dosage recommended on the label. Stir the solution until evenly distributed before drinking.
To help with 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 maximum effect. If you forget to take psyllium, take it immediately if the next schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
Store psyllium at room temperature and in a closed container to avoid direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Psyllium Interactions with Other Drugs
There are several drug interactions that can occur if psyllium is used with other medicines, namely the decreased 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 taking psyllium are:
- Bloated
- stomach cramps
- Constipation
Check with your doctor if the side effects above do not subside or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if an allergic reaction occurs to the drug which can be characterized by certain symptoms, such as 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