Psyllium

Psyllium Powder by Simorgh Darou

Dosage Form: Plant-based laxative powder with orange flavor, standardized to contain a minimum of 15% mucilage per gram of powder.

Composition

Each sachet contains:

• Psyllium husk powder: 3.4 g
• Excipients: 6.6 mg
• Other ingredients: Citric acid, sugar, orange flavoring, and approved food coloring.

Indications

Psyllium powder is indicated for:

• Chronic constipation
• Painful thrombosed hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures or perineal abscesses
• Diaphragmatic hernia
• Anorectal strictures
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Reduction of serum cholesterol levels

Dosage and Administration

Adults: Take 1–2 sachets once or twice daily. Dissolve the powder in one glass of water or juice, stir well, and consume after a few minutes.

Drink one or more glasses of water immediately after taking the powder.

For best results, take at bedtime or in the morning on an empty stomach.

Mechanism of Action

Water absorption: Psyllium husk absorbs water, forming a mucilaginous gel, which softens stools and increases their volume in the colon.

Cholesterol and bile acid binding: Psyllium binds cholesterol and bile acids, facilitating their excretion and lowering cholesterol levels.

Adverse Effects

Temporary bloating and a sense of fullness may occur at the start of treatment and typically resolve with continued use.

Allergic reactions (e.g., sneezing, wheezing, shortness of breath) have been reported.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Psyllium is contraindicated in:
  • Intestinal obstruction
  • Pancreatitis
  • Appendicitis or its symptoms
  • Unexplained rectal bleeding
  • Gastrointestinal ulcers or adhesions
  • Dysphagia
  • Severe hypersensitivity to psyllium
  • Hypertension (in cases with added sodium or sugar restrictions)
• Use in children under 6 years: Only under medical supervision.
• Ensure adequate hydration by drinking 6–8 glasses of water daily to prevent dehydration.
• Avoid taking laxatives within 2 hours of other medications.

Drug Interactions

Lithium salts: Psyllium may reduce lithium absorption, leading to lower serum lithium levels.

Minerals and vitamins: Psyllium may decrease the absorption of calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, vitamin B12, cardiac glycosides, and coumarin derivatives.

Carbamazepine: Psyllium may reduce the rate and extent of carbamazepine absorption.

Use During Pregnancy and Lactation

Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding under medical guidance.

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, dry place at temperatures below 25°C, away from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.