🌾 Ispaghula (Psyllium) Husk / Granules / Powder
📄 Description:
Ispaghula (Psyllium) husk is a natural, bulk-forming laxative derived from the seeds of Plantago ovata. It is used primarily to relieve constipation, regulate bowel movements, and support digestive health.
🧾 Prescription / Indications:
Indicated for:
- Chronic or occasional constipation
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation
- Hemorrhoids – to soften stool
- As adjunct in the management of hypercholesterolemia and diabetes mellitus (slows glucose absorption)
Dosage (general):
- Adults: 3.5–5 g (1–2 teaspoons) of husk or powder mixed in water, 1–3 times daily
- Children: Dose adjusted by age and under medical supervision
Onset of action: Typically 12–72 hours
🔬 Nature:
- Form: Granules, husk, or powder (odorless, tasteless)
- Type: Natural fiber (mucilage-forming)
- Mechanism: Absorbs water in the intestine, swells, and forms a soft gel-like mass, stimulating peristalsis
🌟 Advantages:
- Natural and safe for long-term use
- Promotes regular bowel habits
- Useful in pregnancy and elderly patients
- Helps lower LDL cholesterol and regulate blood glucose
- Improves overall gut health and satiety
📦 Common Packaging:
- Available in:
- Sachets (e.g., 5 g, 10 g)
- Jars or tins (e.g., 100 g, 200 g)
- Bulk pouches
- Usually provided with a measuring spoon
🧊 Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C
- Keep the container tightly closed
- Protect from moisture, as it can clump when damp
⚠️ Precautions:
- Take with plenty of water (minimum 150–250 mL per dose)
- Do not take dry – may cause choking or esophageal obstruction
- Use cautiously in patients with:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Bowel obstruction
- Fecal impaction
- May cause: bloating, flatulence, abdominal discomfort initially
- Not to be used for sudden or severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting without medical advice
👩⚕️ Patient Advice:
- Mix the dose well with water and consume immediately
- Drink additional fluids throughout the day
- Regular use helps improve stool consistency and frequency
- May be taken before or after meals
- Do not use within 1–2 hours of taking other oral medications
- Inform doctor if constipation persists beyond 7 days or if side effects occur