Methylcellulose Powder for Suspension

What is this medication?

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

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Blockage of the intestines or bowel
• Change in bowel habits for more than 14 days
• Nausea or vomiting
• Phenylketonuria
• Stomach pain
• Trouble swallowing
• An unusual or allergic reaction to methylcellulose, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying or get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

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.

What if I miss a dose?

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.

What may interact with this medication?

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.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

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.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Choking—chest pain, trouble swallowing or breathing, vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Nausea
• Stomach pain

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.

Where should I keep my medication?

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.