Methylcellulose
CITRUCEL
What it isA semisynthetic, non-fermentable soluble bulk fiber for constipation.
Why this oneIts soluble, nonfermentable cellulose is gas-sparing and avoids the allergy risk of psyllium.
What limits itIt can obstruct without adequate water. Separate it from other oral drugs because absorption may be delayed.
Methylcellulose prescription history
Animated chart of estimated U.S. prescriptions per year, Constipation meds (1900–2026). Methylcellulose enters in 1940 (estimated).
Principal riskChoking if taken without enough fluid
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Defining liabilityChoking or bowel obstruction with inadequate fluid
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
NO BOXED WARNINGS
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Occasional constipation (bowel movement generally in 12–72 h) | Adults & children ≥12 yr | 2 caplets; increase as needed up to 6 times/day | As needed | 12 caplets/day |
| Occasional constipation | Children 6–11 yr | 1 caplet; increase as needed up to 6 times/day | As needed | 6 caplets/day |
| Occasional constipation | Children <6 yr | Consult a physician | Consult a physician | Consult a physician |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Take each dose with at least 8 oz (a full glass) of water or other fluid — too little liquid may cause choking
Available strengths
- tab 500 mg
- powder 2 g/dose (Citrucel)
Contraindications
- Difficulty in swallowing
Cautions
- Choking: may swell and block throat/esophagus without adequate fluid; seek immediate care for chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing/breathing
- Ask a doctor: sudden change in bowel habits persisting 2 weeks; abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting
- Stop use: constipation lasts >7 days or rectal bleeding
Cost
Methylcellulose (CITRUCEL)
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/unit | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 500 mg | tab | per unit | not offered | |
| 2 g/dose | powder | per unit | not offered |
NADAC is a voluntary CMS survey of what retail community pharmacies pay for the drugs they stock. Methylcellulose is dispensed outside retail pharmacies, so it rarely appears on surveyed invoices.
Open Methylcellulose in the interactive console ↗
Self-check
- Why does methylcellulose cause less gas than fermentable fibers?
It is nonfermentable. - What is needed to avoid obstruction with methylcellulose?
Adequate water.