On this page · 9 sections
Natural Fiber Therapy
Generic name: psyllium
Brand names: Hydrocil, Laxmar, Natural Fiber Therapy
What is Natural Fiber Therapy?
Natural Fiber Therapy is a laxative that adds bulk to stool, helping to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements.
Natural Fiber Therapy may also help reduce cholesterol when combined with a diet that is low in cholesterol and saturated fat.
Natural Fiber Therapy may be used for other reasons that are not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I take Natural Fiber Therapy?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Laxatives may be habit-forming if they are used too often or for too long.
Natural Fiber Therapy can swell in your throat and cause choking if you do not take it with enough liquid. Drink plenty of fluids each day to help improve bowel regularity.
Take Natural Fiber Therapy with a full glass (at least 8 ounces) of water or other liquid.
Swallow Natural Fiber Therapy capsules one at a time.
Natural Fiber Therapy powder must be mixed with liquid before you take it. Do not swallow the dry powder. Mix with at least 8 ounces of liquid such as water or fruit juice. Stir and drink this mixture right away. Add a little more water to the glass, swirl gently and drink right away.
Natural Fiber Therapy usually produces a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours.
Do not take Natural Fiber Therapy for longer than 7 days in a row without a doctor's advice. Using a laxative too often or for too long may cause severe medical problems with your intestines.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
Natural Fiber Therapy may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform all your healthcare providers about your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are taking.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take Natural Fiber Therapy if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Natural Fiber Therapy is safe to use if you have ever had:
- stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting;
- trouble swallowing; or
- a sudden change in bowel habits lasting longer than 2 weeks.
This medicine may contain sugar, sodium, or phenylalanine. Check the medication label if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, phenylketonuria (PKU), or if you are on a low-salt diet.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.
Do not give Natural Fiber Therapy to a child younger than 6 years old without medical advice.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Natural Fiber Therapy side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Natural Fiber Therapy may cause serious side effects. Stop using Natural Fiber Therapy and call your doctor right away if you have:
- constipation that lasts longer than 7 days;
- rectal bleeding; or
- severe stomach pain.
Common side effects of Natural Fiber Therapy may include:
- bloating; or
- minor changes in your bowel habits.
This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Natural Fiber Therapy is used as needed, you might not have a regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it’s almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Avoid breathing in the dust from Natural Fiber Therapy powder when mixing. Inhaling this medicine dust may cause an allergic reaction.
If you take Natural Fiber Therapy as part of a cholesterol-lowering treatment plan, do not eat foods high in fat or cholesterol or your overall treatment will not be as effective.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Natural Fiber Therapy?
Natural Fiber Therapy can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth, which might make them less effective. If you take any oral medicines, take them 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take this medicine.
Other drugs may affect Natural Fiber Therapy, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Common questions about Natural Fiber Therapy
Is psyllium an affordable weight loss option to Ozempic?
Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.