Finding the right over-the-counter medication to relieve constipation is a matter of trial and error. Constipation can cause bloating, abdominal pain and difficulty passing stool. Metamucil, or psyllium, is a commonly used medication to ease stool passage and resolve constipation. You should be aware of how it affects the colon to understand how Metamucil may ease your symptoms.
How Metamucil Works
Metamucil is a bulk-forming laxative. Specifically, when taken at the recommended dose, Metamucil absorbs liquid in the colon, which allows it to become bulky and easier to pass. Therefore, for Metamucil to be effective, you must drink adequate amounts of water to help your stool bulk up.
Negative Effects on the Colon
Drugs.com recommends that you avoid taking Metamucil for too long or you may experience negative effects on your colon. In particular, you may experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or a change in bowel habits. You should stop taking Metamucil if you have abnormal symptoms for more than seven days, or experience severe pain or cramping. Talk to your doctor if you have a colostomy, ileostomy, rectal bleeding or a blockage in your intestines, recommends Drugs.com.
Effect on Colon Absorption
Metamucil may affect how your colon absorbs certain other medications you are taking. According to Drugs.com, taking Metamucil may decrease the amount of medication your colon can absorb, resulting in lower levels of medication in your body and decreased effectiveness. In this case, your doctor may need to temporarily increase the dose of other medications you are taking. If doses are increased, be sure your doctor decreases your doses after you stop taking Metamucil.
Recommendations
If you are constipated and seeking temporarily relief, Metamucil may help alleviate your symptoms. Always check with your doctor before taking Metamucil if you are taking other medications or have health problems related to your colon. To prevent chronic constipation, your should improve your dietary habits. Include more high fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and legumes into your diet. In addition, be sure to drink water throughout the day to keep your stool moist and soft.
