Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects of Ispaghula Husk (Fybogel)

Fybogel - The Wonder Product for Constipation

Are you looking for a high fibre laxative to treat constipation or maintain normal bowel function in various bowel disorders? Fybogel is the answer! It can be purchased without a prescription from pharmacies or supermarkets, and comes in sachets of orange or lemon flavour granules that you can dissolve in water to make a drink.

Fybogel is incredibly versatile and can be used for relieving constipation, including constipation in pregnancy, making bowel movements more regular and easier to pass to avoid straining if you have piles (haemorrhoids) or an anal fissure, and maintaining normal bowel function if you have a colostomy or ileostomy, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, or chronic diarrhoea associated with diverticular disease. But, remember to use Fybogel only if it's not possible to increase your dietary intake of fibre.

Here are some key facts about Fybogel that you should be aware of. Fybogel is a brand name for ispaghula husk, a type of medicine called a bulk-forming laxative. Other brands include Ispagel. It's suitable for adults (including pregnant and breastfeeding women) and children, but don't give it to children under six unless it's been prescribed by a doctor. Fybogel takes two to three days to work, and you need to take a dose twice a day - after breakfast and after your evening meal. Don't take it immediately before going to bed. Each dose of Fybogel granules should be mixed into a full glass of water, and you need to drink plenty of fluids while you're taking it. Finally, the most common side effects are wind and bloating.

So, how does Fybogel work? Fybogel sachets and Fybogel Hi-Fibre sachets both contain ispaghula husk 3.5g. Ispaghula husk is a type of insoluble fibre that's not absorbed into your body. It swells when it comes into contact with fluid in your gut and this makes your poo softer and more bulky. The increased bulk stimulates the muscles in the walls of your bowel to push the poo through the bowel, which relieves constipation.

If you suffer from chronic watery diarrhoea, isphaghula can help by absorbing excess water and adding bulk to your stools. It may take a few days of taking Fybogel for a noticeable improvement in bowel movements.

Who is Fybogel Suitable For?

Most adults, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, can safely take Fybogel. Children over the age of six can take it as well, as long as their doctor has prescribed it. However, it is important to note that Fybogel is not suitable for individuals with intestinal obstruction, faecal impaction, weakness in the bowel wall muscle, difficulty swallowing, or phenylketonuria. If you have experienced a sudden change in bowel habits lasting over two weeks, consult your doctor prior to taking Fybogel.

Dosage and Consumption of Fybogel

The recommended doses for Fybogel are as follows:

• Adults and Children over 13 years of age: Take one sachet of Fybogel twice daily, dissolved in a glass of water after breakfast and dinner.
• Children between 6 to 12 years of age: Take half to one level 5ml spoonful of Fybogel (depending on the child's size and age) dissolved in a glass of water twice daily, after breakfast and dinner.

Children under 6 years of age: Half to one level 5ml spoonful of Fybogel (depending on the child's size and age) dissolved in a glass of water daily after breakfast and dinner. This should only be done on the advice of a doctor.

It is essential to stir each dose of Fybogel granules into a glass with a minimum of 150ml water, and drink it all after the fizzing subsides and the granules dissolve. Avoid inhaling the powder while preparing the medication, as it can cause allergic reactions. Do not take Fybogel just before bedtime because it can cause gut blockages since the gut slows down while sleeping. Drinking enough fluids throughout the day is crucial while taking Fybogel to avoid gut blockages. If you miss a dose of Fybogel, take the next dose when it is due, do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. If you accidentally take too much Fybogel, drink plenty of water. If you haven't had a bowel movement after three days of taking Fybogel, consult your doctor.

Fybogel Side Effects

Different people can experience different side effects while taking medication. Specific side effects associated with Fybogel include excess flatulence, bloating, and swelling of the abdomen. If you do not take Fybogel with sufficient fluids or take it close to bedtime, it can block your food pipe or intestines. Some individuals may have a mild allergic reaction resulting in a runny nose, itchy eyes or skin. Stop taking Fybogel if you suspect an allergic reaction, inform your pharmacist or doctor. In rare cases, an individual may have a severe allergic reaction, including swollen face, throat or tongue, wheezing or difficulty breathing, itchy skin rash, or anaphylaxis. Get immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur. Consult the package insert or consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information about Fybogel's possible side effects. You can also report any side effects you experience using the yellow card website.

Is It Safe to Take Fybogel Alongside Other Medications?

It is crucial to consult with your pharmacist before taking Fybogel if you are already on any other medications. Certain drugs, such as opioid painkillers like morphine, can decrease gut motility, rendering this type of laxative unsuitable for consumption in such circumstances.

To ensure the efficacy of the medication, take Fybogel before or after other medications, with a minimum of half an hour gap. Furthermore, do not use Fybogel in conjunction with other laxatives unless expressly directed by your doctor.

Last updated on: 06.11.2018.