Metamucil and Citrucel are recommended as the best treatment in most cases of constipation because their mechanisms of action are very similar to how the digestive system normally works. After constipation resolves, Metamucil and Citrucel can still be used as fiber supplements to promote good digestive health.
Bulk-forming laxatives contain fiber that your body can't digest. In your colon, the fiber “bulks up” the stool by drawing and keeping water in. This action softens the stool and stimulates your bowels (intestines). Some examples include psyllium (Metamucil®), methylcellulose (Citrucel®) and wheat dextrin (Benefiber®).
Metamucil is made with psyllium husk, a plant-based fiber that helps promote digestive health and regularity. * It also acts as a non-stimulant laxative that relieves occasional constipation, generally helping you produce a bowel movement in 12 to 72 hours.
For most people with constipation, healthcare providers recommend eating a high fiber diet along with drinking plenty of water or other liquids, as well as exercising regularly. Stool softeners can be a reasonable option when these strategies don't work.
Laxatives work in different ways, and the effectiveness of each laxative type varies from person to person. In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.
Stool softener side effects may include: Stomach or intestinal pain or cramps. Nausea. Diarrhea.
Take Supplements or Medication
Supplements rich in magnesium are great for seniors with bones that are less dense and works wonders on your digestive system. Studies by Healthline have reported that magnesium citrate relaxes your bowels while extracting water to your intestines, making stools softer and easier to pass.
No, you should not take Metamucil, Citrucel, Miralax and Colace together. It is not recommended to take more than one laxative or stool softener for the treatment of constipation at one time because it may increase the likelihood or severity of side effects, such as diarrhea and vomiting, fluid and electrolyte losses.
Taking fiber supplements every day seems to be safe. Popular fiber supplements include inulin, psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, others) and methylcellulose (Citrucel). Fiber is good for the body. It helps the bowel work well and prevents constipation.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits in the past two weeks or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not give Metamucil to children younger than six years unless on a doctor's advice. Keep your Metamucil in a cool, dry, place, away from moisture and heat.
Some of the serious side effects of Metamucil are:
Constipation which lasts more than 5 days. Rectal Bleeding. Severe Stomach pain.
Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 240 mL of water or liquid per serving) is consumed. We recommend taking Metamucil three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil.
Benefiber may be a more natural choice
Benefiber contains fewer additional ingredients than Metamucil. Benefiber contains only wheat germ, which may make it a more natural choice.
Relief within hours
The fastest-working oral laxatives include mineral oil, saline laxatives (like magnesium hydroxide and magnesium citrate), and stimulant laxatives (like bisacodyl and senna tablets). Common OTC products in this group include Milk of Magnesia, Dulcolax, and Senokot.
If you choose powdered Metamucil, you can mix with juice or water, but make sure that the liquid is cool. Hot liquids make it hard to mix and drink your Metamucil because the psyllium fiber gels faster in comparison. It's Metamucil-o-clock for someone out there, somewhere. Anytime is a good time to take Metamucil.
A: Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil fiber as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 8 ounces of water or liquid per serving) is consumed. We recommend taking Metamucil between one and three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil.
Common Metamucil side effects include gas, bloating, and nausea. It's best to take Metamucil as directed to help prevent potentially dangerous side effects, such as blockages in the intestines. Speak with your healthcare provider before adding Metamucil to your daily routine.