METHYLCELLULOSE (meth ill SELL yoo lose) prevents and treats occasional constipation. It works by increasing the bulk of your stool. This increases pressure, which prompts the muscles in your intestines to move stool. It also softens the stool, making it easier to have a bowel movement. It belongs to a group of medications called laxatives.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Citrucel, Fiber Therapy
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Mix this medication into a full glass of milk or water. Take by mouth. Follow the directions on the package labeling, or take as directed by your care team. Take your medication at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Interactions are not expected.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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This medication can take up to 3 days to work. Check with your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. See your care team if you have to treat your constipation for more than 1 week.
Avoid taking other medications within 2 hours of taking this medication.
Drink several glasses of water a day while you are taking this medication. This will help to relieve constipation and prevent dehydration.
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.
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