Constipation is a problem that many people have, but are a little hesitant to talk about. The discomfort you feel when going to the toilet, stomach pain, etc. can make your day miserable. Methylcellulose is a medicine that doctors recommend as a solution to this. Today, we will talk about this simply, in a way that you can understand.
What is methylcellulose? How does it work?
Simply put, methylcellulose is a drug used to prevent and treat constipation. It belongs to a class of drugs called ' laxatives '.
Think of it like a natural fiber that absorbs water and swells in our intestines. When this medicine enters the intestines, it absorbs the water there and increases the volume, or bulk, of the stool. This creates pressure inside the intestines, stimulates the muscles in the intestines, and makes it easier for the stool to pass through the body. Not only that, but it also softens the stool, which reduces the pain and discomfort felt when going to the bathroom.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before you start using this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor the following information, as it can be dangerous to use this medicine with these conditions.
| Situation to be concerned about | Description |
|---|---|
| Intestinal obstruction | If you have previously had a blockage of the intestines. |
| Change in toilet habits | If your toilet habits have changed for more than two weeks (14 days). |
| Vomiting or nausea | If you have unexplained stomach pain along with vomiting or nausea. |
| Difficulty swallowing | If you have trouble swallowing. |
| Phenylketonuria | If you have this genetic condition. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to methylcellulose or other medicines, foods, or dyes. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
The medicine should be used in the right way.
The way you use this medicine is very important, so be very careful about these things.
- Taking with water: This medicine should be taken with a full glass of water . Taking this medicine without water can cause the medicine to get stuck in your throat.
- Follow the instructions: Take the medicine exactly as directed on the package or as prescribed by your doctor. Take it at the right time. Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
- For children: In some cases, a doctor may prescribe this medicine even for children over 6 years of age. However, you should definitely seek medical advice.
Very important: If you do not drink enough water while taking this medicine, the medicine may swell and become lodged in your throat or chest, causing difficulty breathing. Therefore, always take this pill/capsule with a full glass of water.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to remember when taking medication and side effects
It is important to pay attention to your body while using this medicine.
- Time to work: This medicine can take about 3 days to work, so don't worry if you don't see results right away.
- Medical advice:If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, talk to your doctor. If you need to treat constipation for more than a week, be sure to see a doctor.
- Other medications: Avoid taking other medications within 2 hours of taking this medicine, as it may interfere with the absorption of other medications into the body.
- Drink water: Drink several glasses of water throughout the day. This will help reduce constipation and prevent dehydration.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this one can have side effects. It's important to be aware of them.
| Side effect | What to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Choking | Chest pain, difficulty swallowing or breathing, vomiting. |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Bloating | Uncomfortable fullness in the stomach. |
| Gas | Feeling of discomfort due to air in the intestines. |
| Nausea/stomach pain | Mild nausea or stomach pain. |
| Diarrhea | Flatulence. |
How to store the medicine?
This is very simple.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius) and protect from moisture. Do not store in the freezer.
- Discard expired medication without using it.
Take-Home Message
- Methylcellulose is a solution for occasional constipation, but it should always be taken with a full glass of water .
- If constipation lasts more than a week or occurs frequently, do not self-treat and see your doctor.
- Don't forget to tell your doctor about any other illnesses and allergies you have before starting the medication.
- If you experience a sore throat, difficulty breathing, or severe allergic symptoms after taking the medicine, seek medical advice immediately .
- It is very important to drink plenty of water throughout the day while taking this medication.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 What are methylcellulose (Methylcellulose / Citrucel) tablets/powders used for?
This is not a regular medicine! This is a very safe (Bulk-forming laxative) 'fiber' (derived from plants) that can be purchased at pharmacies. It is mainly taken by people with severe 'constipation'. Unlike other harsh laxatives, it does not irritate the intestines, but instead helps the stool to pass naturally (without pain).
💬 What happens in the intestines after consuming this fiber (Methylcellulose)?
When you drink this, it is not absorbed into the body/blood at all. When this powder/tablet goes into the intestines, it acts like a sponge, 'absorbing its own weight in water and becoming very large (swollen) and like a jelly', mixing with the stool mass (bulk forming). When the stool mass becomes large and loose, the intestines can easily push it forward and expel it without any problems.
💬 Why is it said that you need to drink a lot of water when taking this medicine (Methylcellulose)?
That is the biggest danger and necessity! If this is not taken with 1-2 glasses of water/liquid (a full glass should be drunk) it can get stuck in the throat or intestines, become hard like a stone and cause choking/bowel obstruction. Also it takes about 1-3 days to work (it does not empty the stomach immediately). But it is much less gassy and filling than other fibers (Psyllium).
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