Citrucel: Quick Relief Or Slow-Acting?

Citrucel is a popular fibre supplement used to treat constipation and maintain a healthy digestive system. It is available in both powder and capsule forms and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. The active ingredient in Citrucel is methylcellulose, a non-allergenic, water-soluble fibre derived from plant-based cellulose. This works as a bulk-forming laxative, increasing the bulk of the stool and helping it retain fluid, making it softer and easier to pass.

Citrucel is usually taken 1 to 3 times per day, and it is recommended that it be taken with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 millilitres) to prevent choking. It can take anywhere between 12 and 72 hours for Citrucel to take effect, and it should not be taken for longer than one week unless directed by a doctor.

How long does it take for Citrucel to work?

Citrucel is a bulk-forming laxative that treats constipation and helps maintain regular bowel movements. It is available in powder and capsule forms. The powder is mixed with water or another liquid, while the capsules are swallowed.

Citrucel's active ingredient is methylcellulose, a nonallergenic fibre derived from plant-based cellulose. It increases the bulk of the stool and helps it retain fluid, making it softer and easier to pass. It also pulls water into the intestines.

Citrucel typically takes between 12 and 72 hours to work, although individuals may experience results sooner or later than this timeframe. It is recommended that individuals take Citrucel with plenty of fluids to avoid choking. The dosage can vary based on age, with adults and children aged 12 and above typically starting with one heaping tablespoon mixed with 8 ounces of water. This dose can be increased by one tablespoon at a time, up to three times per day. For children aged 6 to 11 years, the starting dose is 2.5 level teaspoons, which can be increased by 2.5 teaspoons at a time, up to three times per day. It is recommended that parents, guardians, and caregivers consult a doctor before giving Citrucel to anyone under the age of 6.

It is important to follow the directions on the product label or as advised by a healthcare professional when taking Citrucel. It is typically recommended to take Citrucel for up to 7 days. If constipation persists after this time, individuals should consult a medical professional.

Citrucel dosage

Citrucel is a bulk-forming laxative that increases the amount of water in your stools to help make them softer and easier to pass. It is available in powder and tablet form.

Powder

The powder should be mixed with a full glass (8 ounces) of cold water or another liquid. It is recommended to drink another glass of water after taking the medication. The dosage is as follows:

• Adults and children 12 years of age and over: Start with 1 heaping tablespoon. Increase as needed, 1 heaping tablespoon at a time, up to 3 times per day. Do not exceed 12 caplets per day.
• Children 6-11 years of age: Start with 2.5 level teaspoons. Increase as needed, 2.5 level teaspoons at a time, up to 3 times per day. Do not exceed 6 caplets per day.
• Children under 6 years of age: Consult a physician.

Tablets

The tablets should be taken with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of water or another liquid. The dosage is as follows:

• Adults and children 12 years of age and over: Start with 2 caplets. Increase as needed up to 6 times per day. Do not exceed 12 caplets per day.
• Children 6-11 years of age: Start with 1 caplet. Increase as needed up to 6 times per day. Do not exceed 6 caplets per day.
• Children under 6 years of age: Consult a physician.

It is important to note that Citrucel should not be taken for longer than one week unless directed by a doctor. Additionally, it may take 12 to 72 hours for Citrucel to take effect.

Citrucel vs. Metamucil

Citrucel is a bulk-forming laxative that treats constipation by increasing the amount of water in your stools, making them softer and easier to pass. It is available as an oral tablet and in powder form to be dissolved in water or other liquids. It is recommended that Citrucel is taken 1 to 3 times per day, and you should have a bowel movement within 12 hours to 3 days.

Metamucil is also a bulk-forming laxative used to treat constipation. Metamucil contains psyllium fiber, which is a type of natural, soluble fiber. It is available in powder form to be dissolved in liquid, as well as capsules, gummies, and fiber thins (snacks). Metamucil typically causes a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours after the first dose, and the effects last for around eight hours.

The main difference between Citrucel and Metamucil is that Citrucel contains methylcellulose fiber, which is insoluble, while Metamucil contains psyllium fiber, which is soluble. This means that Citrucel stays intact in the gut to add bulk to the stool, whereas Metamucil dissolves in the gut, creating a gel-like coating on the intestinal wall that helps ease stool passage and softens stools. Metamucil is also more likely to cause bloating and gas than Citrucel.

Both Citrucel and Metamucil are over-the-counter medications that are FDA-approved for adults and children aged 6 and older. They are both effective at treating occasional constipation, and there is no evidence that one is better than the other. The deciding factor between the two is typically factors such as taste, texture, and side effects. Citrucel is also slightly less expensive than Metamucil.

Citrucel side effects

Citrucel is a bulk-forming laxative that increases the amount of water in stools, making them softer and easier to pass. It is used to treat constipation and maintain regular bowel movements. It is available as a powder that must be mixed with a full glass of water or another liquid, or as a tablet.

As with any medication, there is a risk of side effects. The most common side effects of Citrucel are gas and stomach discomfort or cramping. However, more serious side effects may occur, including:

• Allergic reaction: Get emergency medical help if you experience hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, rash, itching, red/swollen/blistered/peeling skin, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth.
• Choking: Citrucel can cause choking if taken without enough liquid. It may cause the powder to swell in the throat, especially in older adults. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.
• Gastrointestinal problems: Stop taking Citrucel and consult a doctor if you experience symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, blood in your stool, or a sudden change in bowel habits lasting two weeks or longer. Also, seek medical advice if constipation lasts more than seven days or if you develop rectal bleeding, as these could be signs of a serious gastrointestinal issue.
• Overuse: Overuse of Citrucel or any laxative may damage the nerves, muscles, or tissues in the intestines.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. Always follow the directions on the medicine label and package, and consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns or experience side effects.

Citrucel alternatives

Citrucel is a bulk-forming laxative that is used to treat constipation and maintain regular bowel movements. It is typically taken 1 to 3 times per day, and it should be mixed with a full glass of water or another liquid. While Citrucel is a popular choice for treating constipation, there are several alternatives available. Here are some Citrucel alternatives:

• Metamucil: Metamucil (psyllium) is a fiber supplement and bulk-forming laxative, similar to Citrucel. It can aid in digestion and treat constipation. Metamucil is more likely to cause gas than Citrucel because it is a fermentable fiber. It should be taken with a cup of water and can be taken with or without food.
• Miralax (Polyethylene Glycol): Miralax is an osmotic laxative that works with the water in the body to help the digestive system. It attracts water in the colon, leading to stools retaining more water, making it easier to pass. Miralax typically works within 24 to 96 hours.
• Colace (Docusate Sodium): Colace is a stool softener, not a laxative. It provides relief from constipation by softening the stool, making it easier to pass. It can be taken once daily or in divided doses with a glass of water, with or without food.
• Heather's Tummy Fiber: This is a natural alternative to Citrucel, containing 100% organic acacia senegal fiber. It has been reported to be effective in treating IBS and maintaining regularity.
• Dulcolax Stool Softener: While there is limited information on this alternative, it is marketed as a stool softener, suggesting it works similarly to Colace.

It is important to note that these alternatives may have different side effects, interactions, and directions for use compared to Citrucel. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Frequently asked questions