Metamucil is one of many brand names for the over-the-counter laxative known as psyllium. Scientific studies indicate that it may be an effective treatment for the symptoms of IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome. Speak to your doctor about the possible dangers and side effects of using Metamucil if you suffer from IBS. Additionally, never use more than the recommended dosage of Metamucil or consume it for more than seven days unless you are under the direction and supervision of a doctor who is familiar with your medical history.
Metamucil
Metamucil is made up of the seeds and seed husks of psyllium, an herb also known by its scientific name Plantago ovata. It is sold as a powder that must be mixed with 8 oz. of fruit juice or water, consumed immediately, then followed with at least six to eight glasses of water throughout the day. In the digestive system, the psyllium particles act as a bulk-forming laxative. The psyllium swells with water and forms a viscous mass that stimulates intestinal contractions and regulates bowel movements. Because of these properties, it is commonly used to treat constipation and diarrhea. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that clinical studies indicate Metamucil use may also lower blood cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.
Use for IBS
IBS is a digestive system disorder in which food either passes through the intestines too quickly causing gas, diarrhea and abdominal pain or remains in the intestines too long resulting in bloating and frequent constipation. While the exact cause of IBS is not known, triggers like stress, gastroenteritis and certain foods may cause the symptoms to worsen significantly. MayoClinic.com reports that Metamucil's effect on the digestive system allows it help treat IBS-caused diarrhea and constipation. However, Metamucil only eases intestinal symptoms -- it does not cure IBS.
Scientific Research
A 2009 study published in the "British Medical Journal" found that IBS sufferers who consumed 10 g of psyllium daily for 12 weeks experienced fewer and less severe symptoms than IBS sufferers supplementing daily with 10 g of either bran or a placebo. Medline Plus reports that Metamucil-focused IBS research has safely used dosages ranging from 10 to 30 g of psyllium up to three times daily but that the psyllium powder may need to be used regularly for up to four weeks before there is a decrease in IBS symptoms. Because using Metamucil for longer than a week can damage the digestive system, only do so at the instruction of your doctor.
Considerations
Metamucil can cause side effects like bloating, and, in rare instances, severe nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, rectal bleeding, choking or an extreme allergic reaction that may cause hives, facial swelling and difficulty breathing. Using Metamucil too often or for longer than a week may cause damage to intestinal muscle tissue and nerves. If you have diabetes, phenylketonuria, a colostomy, a history of digestive system disorders or are currently taking medications like tetracycline, digoxin, lithium, carbamazepine, doxycycline, cholesterol-lowering drugs or blood thinners you should avoid using Metamucil.
References
- Drugs.com: Metamucil
- MayoClinic.com: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- MedlinePlus: Blond Psyllium
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Psyllium
- "BMJ"; Soluble or Insoluble Fibre in Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Primary Care? Randomised Placebo Controlled Trial; C.J. Bijkerk, et al.; August 2009
