Psyllium
METAMUCIL
Pronunciation: SIL-i-yum
“Metamu–Silly Yum!”
What it isBulk-forming soluble fiber that makes a viscous gel; constipation and modest LDL lowering.
Why this oneIt can normalize both hard and loose stools while also lowering LDL slightly.
What limits it⚑ Take with ample fluid or risk esophageal or bowel obstruction; bloating and drug-binding require separation.
Psyllium prescription history
Animated chart of estimated U.S. prescriptions per year, Constipation meds (1900–2026). Psyllium enters in 1930 (estimated).
Principal riskObstruction without adequate fluid
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Defining liabilityChoking or obstruction if swallowed without sufficient liquid
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
NO BOXED WARNINGS
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Occasional constipation / irregularity (bulk-forming fiber laxative) | Adults & children >=12 yr | 5 capsules with >=8 oz liquid at first sign of irregularity | 5 capsules up to TID | 5 capsules TID |
| Occasional constipation / irregularity | Children <12 yr | Ask a doctor | — | — |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Take each dose with at least 8 oz (a full glass) of liquid — taking without enough liquid may cause choking
- Swallow 1 capsule at a time
- Take >=2 hours before or after oral prescription medicines (bulk fibers may affect how well other medicines work)
Available strengths
- cap 520 mg
- powder 3.4 g/12 g
- powder 6 g/6 g
Cautions
- Choking risk if taken without adequate liquid
- May affect absorption/effect of other oral medicines — separate by 2 hours
- Changes in bowel habits or minor bloating may occur as body adjusts to increased fiber
Adverse reactions
- Minor bloating, changes in bowel habits (adjustment period)
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
Cost
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/mo | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 520 mg | cap | 90 TID | not offered |
Open Psyllium in the interactive console ↗
Self-check
- Psyllium: Can it normalize loose as well as hard stools?
Yes. - Psyllium: Why take it with ample fluid?
To prevent esophageal or bowel obstruction.