Ispaghula husk

About ispaghula husk

Constipation can be caused by a poor diet, not drinking enough water, or not going to the toilet as soon as you feel the need to. Pregnancy, a lack of exercise or movement (such as being ill in bed) and some medicines, including some painkillers, can also cause constipation.

Increasing the amount of fibre (such as bran) in your diet and drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day can effectively prevent or relieve constipation. You will have been given ispaghula husk for constipation if you cannot increase the fibre in your diet or if this is insufficient. Ispaghula husk works by increasing the bulk of the stools, which encourages the bowels to move the stools through the digestive system thus relieving constipation.

This bulking action means that it can also be used to help treat diarrhoea and to help regulate the passage of food through the gut in people with certain long-term bowel disorders such as an ileostomy, irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis.

Ispaghula husk may sometimes be used in a combination preparation with mebeverine. Mebeverine is an anti-spasmodic which is used to relieve spasms in the gut.

Before taking ispaghula husk

Before taking ispaghula husk make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you find it difficult to swallow.
• If you are so constipated that you may be suffering from a blockage.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take ispaghula husk

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take ispaghula husk exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• Mix ispaghula husk granules or powder with water and take it immediately.
• It is important to drink plenty of water while you are being treated with ispaghula husk. You should aim to drink at least eight large glasses of water a day.
• Never take ispaghula husk just before bedtime.

Getting the most from your treatment

• To prevent constipation it is important to eat a well balanced diet containing fibre (whole grain breads and cereals, bran, fruit and green leafy vegetables) and to take daily exercise.
• Drinks containing caffeine (tea, coffee, colas) or alcohol can make constipation worse as they have a diuretic effect, which means they cause a loss of fluid from the body, causing dehydration.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can ispaghula husk cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store ispaghula husk

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines