Methylcellulose



Citrucel®[OTC]; FiberEase™[OTC]







Methylcellulose

(meth il SEL yoo lose)

U.S. Brand Names
Citrucel®[OTC]; FiberEase™[OTC]
Pharmacologic Category
Laxative
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to methylcellulose or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have intestinal blockage.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat constipation.
  • This medicine is used to increase fiber in the diet.
How does it work?
  • Methylcellulose softens the stool by increasing its water content.
How is it best taken?
  • Take this medicine with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
  • Take this medicine with a full glass of water.
  • Mix powder with water and drink.
  • Drink plenty of noncaffeine-containing liquid unless told to drink less liquid by healthcare provider.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Many times this medicine is taken on an as needed basis.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Try to separate other medicines from this one by 2 hours. This medicine prevents absorption of many medicines.
  • If you have PKU, talk with healthcare provider. Some products do contain phenylalanine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Belly pain.
  • Gas.
  • Stomach cramps.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe nausea or vomiting.
  • Severe diarrhea.
  • Severe belly pain.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins. `
Brand Names: