Side Effects of Metamucil and Omega 3

Side Effects of Metamucil and Omega 3
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Metamucil is a brand name of psyllium, a medicated powder used to help alleviate constipation. It works by drawing water into the bowels causing the stools to bulk and soften. This makes the stool easier to evacuate from your body. There are common side effects associated with this medication. Omega 3 contains polyunsaturated fats and you can commonly take it as fish oil capsules, MayoClinic.com indicates. It may help to regulate your triglycerides, a part of cholesterol. Omega 3 also may produce some side effects, as well.

Bloating

Metamucil may cause you to feel unusually full or bloated in your abdominal region. This may decrease your appetite, Drugs.com reports. Because this over-the-counter medication helps to bulk the stools in your bowels with fiber, it may produce a bloated feeling. You may feel full before your start a meal. Abdominal bloating may distend your belly. This is a common side effect of this medication, Drugs.com reports. It should pass after your body becomes acclimated to the new medication.

Rash

Taking omega 3 as a supplement may produce reddened, itchy rash. This most likely occurs as you start using fish oil supplements. It should disappear with further use. If it continues, notify your physician for advice and follow-up.

Back Pain

Back pain may occur from taking omega 3. Again, this type of non-serious side effect should occur as a temporary problem. Once you adjust to the supplement, it should recede and stop. You may need to rest with this type of discomfort and ask your doctor for advice.

Gastric Disturbances

Your stomach may feel upset because of the omega 3 as you first take it. This nausea also may cause you to avoid food. For most people, nausea will occur temporarily, but if the side effect continues, you may need to see your doctor. You also may produce excess gas in your stomach that causes belching. This may occur because of the relaxation of the pyloric sphincter in the esophagus. This non-serious serious side effect should end with continued use.

References

Article reviewed by Tina Boyle Last updated on: Aug 7, 2011

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