Psyllium products are made from Plantago plants, which were once native to the Mediterranean regions and west Asia but can now be found growing throughout the world. These plants are perennial herbs that grow well in cool, dry weather. Psyllium has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese, European, and Indian medicine.
psyllium, ispaghula
plantago arenaria, plantago ovata, plantago afra
People most often use psyllium to manage various gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation, hemorrhoids, anal fissure, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. It has also been used for lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
There is good scientific evidence showing that psyllium is effective as a bulk laxative and stool softener for treating constipation and improving symptoms related to hemorrhoids. The role of psyllium for other uses is not clear and requires further studies.
Several studies have shown that psyllium products can lower cholesterol by small amounts. Although psyllium products should not be used alone for treatment of high cholesterol, they can be used in conjunction with other lifestyle changes that can help lower cholesterol, as recommended by your health care provider.
Your health care provider may have recommended this product for other conditions. Contact a health care provider if you have questions.
Psyllium products are generally well tolerated for up to 6 weeks if taken as directed and with adequate water intake. The main side effects of psyllium products are related to stomach disturbances, including passing more gas, bloating, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. If you notice other symptoms while using psyllium, such as bleeding from the rectum, seek immediate medical attention.
Some people using psyllium products have experienced serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis resulting in sudden breathing problems. If you experience any difficulty breathing, vomiting, or chest pain, seek immediate medical attention. Do not use psyllium if you are allergic to psyllium, the Plantago lanceolata plant known as English plantains, any other member of the Plantaginaceae plant family.
You should also see your doctor if you:
Psyllium must be taken with adequate amounts of fluid. Without enough water, psyllium can swell and block the throat or intestines and may cause choking and bowel obstruction.
People who have diabetes should use psyllium products with caution, since psyllium can lower blood sugar.
Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should use psyllium only on the advice of a health care professional.
Do not use psyllium if you have:
Psyllium products may interfere with the absorption of other medications and supplements, and so should be taken at least 2 hours before or after other medications. This is especially important for people taking medications such as carbamazepine, digoxin, lithium, metformin, and olanzapine where changes in the levels of these medications could result in how well the medication works and controls your symptoms. Psyllium products can also interfere with the absorption of medications that are slowly released from specially designed tablets or capsules. Ask your pharmacist if the medication you are taking may interfere with psyllium.
Before taking any new medications, including natural health products, speak to your physician, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Tell your health care provider about any natural health products you may be taking.
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