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 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) |
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Why is this drug prescribed ? |
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Psyllium, a bulk- forming laxative, is used to treat constipation. It absorbs liquid in the intestines, swells, and forms a bulky stool, which is easy to pass. Psyllium also may be prescribed by your doctor to treat diarrhea or high cholesterol.
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When should it be used ? |
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Psyllium usually is taken one to three times daily as a laxative. Follow the directions on the label carefully, and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any part that you do not understand. If psyllium was prescribed by your doctor, follow your doctor's directions. Psyllium usually works as a laxative within 12 to 24 hours. However, you may have to wait up to three days for its effect. Do not take psyllium as a laxative for longer than one week unless your doctor directs you to do so. |
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How should it be used ? |
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Psyllium comes in powder, wafer and granule form. The label tells you how much to take at each dose. The powder and granules must be mixed with eight ounces of a pleasant tasting liquid, such as fruit juice, right before use. For pysllium to work properly and to prevent side effects, you must drink at least eight ounces of liquid when you take it. Chew wafers thoroughly. |
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What special instructions should I follow while using this drug? |
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Do not take psyllium if you have stomach or abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, or a change in bowel function that lasts longer than two weeks without checking with your doctor first. Do not take more medication at each dose than as directed. |
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What special dietary instruction should I follow while using this drug ? |
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To prevent constipation, drink plenty of fluids, exercise regularly, and eat a high- fiber diet, including whole- grain (e.g. bran) cereals, fruits and vegetables. If you take psyllium for high cholesterol, your doctor also may prescribe a low- cholesterol or low- fat diet. Follow these instructions carefully. |
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What should I do if forget to take a dose ? |
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Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, and take any remaining doses for that day at the regularly scheduled times. However, if you remember the missed dose when it is time for your next scheduled dose, take only the scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose. |
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What side effects can this drug cause ? What can I do about them ? |
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Although side effects from psyllium are not common, they can occur. Difficulty breathing, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, skin rash,, itching. Stop taking psyllium and contact your doctor immediately. Difficulty swallowing may be reduced by drinking more fluid with this medication. |
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What other precautions should I follow while using this drug ? |
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If you have rectal bleeding, history of intestinal blockage, or difficulty swallowing, contact your doctor before taking psyllium. Also contact your doctor before taking psyllium if you have diabetes mellitus, heart disease, hypertension, or kidney disease. Some psyllium products contain sugar or minerals that may be harmful to your condition. If you are pregnant or breast- feeding, contact your doctor before taking this medication. Before taking psyllium, tell your pharmacist or doctor if you are on a low- sugar or low- sodium diet. Do not take digoxin, salicylates (aspirin), or nutrofurantoin within three hours of taking psyllium. |
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What storage conditions are necessary for this drug ? |
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Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from heat, moisture (not in the bathroom), and direct light. |
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