Citrucel Orange Powder 850gm
It is used to treat constipation.It is used to raise fiber in the diet.
Drug Class
Laxative, Bulk-Forming
Pharmacologic Class
Fiber Supplement, Polysaccharide
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Methylcellulose is a type of fiber that works by absorbing water in your intestines. This makes your stool softer and bulkier, which helps it move through your digestive system more easily and promotes regular bowel movements. It's used to treat occasional constipation and to add fiber to your diet.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To use this medication safely and effectively, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Mix the medication with a full glass (at least 8 ounces or 240 mL) of cold water or milk, stirring well for 15 seconds or blending in a shaker or blender before drinking. You can take this medication with or without food, but if it causes stomach upset, take it with food.
It's crucial to take this medication with plenty of liquid to avoid the risk of it swelling and blocking your throat, which can lead to choking. If you have difficulty swallowing, do not take this medication. If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or trouble swallowing or breathing after taking this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
Unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake, drink plenty of non-caffeinated liquids.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store this medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom. Keep the lid tightly closed and store all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you have questions about disposing of your medication, consult your pharmacist, who may be aware of drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
To use this medication safely and effectively, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Mix the medication with a full glass (at least 8 ounces or 240 mL) of cold water or milk, stirring well for 15 seconds or blending in a shaker or blender before drinking. You can take this medication with or without food, but if it causes stomach upset, take it with food.
It's crucial to take this medication with plenty of liquid to avoid the risk of it swelling and blocking your throat, which can lead to choking. If you have difficulty swallowing, do not take this medication. If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or trouble swallowing or breathing after taking this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
Unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake, drink plenty of non-caffeinated liquids.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store this medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom. Keep the lid tightly closed and store all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you have questions about disposing of your medication, consult your pharmacist, who may be aware of drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Drink at least 8 ounces (240 mL) of water or other liquid with each dose. Drinking enough fluid is essential to prevent choking or blockage.
- Maintain adequate fluid intake throughout the day (e.g., 6-8 glasses of water daily).
- Increase dietary fiber intake from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel regularity.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
1 rounded tablespoon (approx. 19g) in 8 oz (240 mL) of cold water or other liquid, 1 to 3 times daily. Stir briskly and drink promptly.
Dose Range:
1 - 3 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
constipation:
Start with 1 dose daily, gradually increase to 3 doses daily as needed for desired effect.
fiber_supplementation:
1 dose daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established
Child:
Children 6-11 years: 1/2 adult dose (1 rounded teaspoon) in 8 oz (240 mL) of cold water or other liquid, 1 to 3 times daily. Children under 6 years: Consult a physician.
Adolescent:
Adolescents 12 years and older: Adult dose.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed; not systemically absorbed.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Methylcellulose is a bulk-forming laxative. It is a hydrophilic colloid that absorbs water in the gastrointestinal tract, forming a soft, bulky gel. This increases the bulk of the stool, which stimulates peristalsis and facilitates bowel evacuation. The increased bulk also helps to soften the stool, making it easier to pass.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Negligible (not absorbed systemically)
Tmax:
Not applicable (not absorbed)
FoodEffect:
No significant food effect on efficacy, but should be taken with adequate fluid.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (not absorbed)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (not absorbed)
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (not absorbed)
Clearance:
Not applicable (not absorbed)
ExcretionRoute:
Fecal (unchanged)
Unchanged:
Nearly 100%
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
12-24 hours (initial effect), full effect may take 2-3 days
PeakEffect:
2-3 days
DurationOfAction:
Continuous with regular use
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Chest pain
- Vomiting
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. Contact your doctor or seek medical help if you experience any of the following side effects or if they bother you or do not go away:
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Gas
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor for medical advice. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Chest pain
- Vomiting
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. Contact your doctor or seek medical help if you experience any of the following side effects or if they bother you or do not go away:
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Gas
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor for medical advice. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Choking sensation
- Severe abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rectal bleeding
- No bowel movement after 3 days of use
- Worsening constipation
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bowel obstruction
+ Abdominal pain
+ Upset stomach
+ Rectal bleeding
+ Vomiting
+ Changes in bowel habits that persist for more than 2 weeks
* Difficulty swallowing
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bowel obstruction
+ Abdominal pain
+ Upset stomach
+ Rectal bleeding
+ Vomiting
+ Changes in bowel habits that persist for more than 2 weeks
* Difficulty swallowing
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), consult with your doctor, as some formulations of this drug may contain phenylalanine. Do not use this medication for more than 7 days without explicit instruction from your doctor. Additionally, refrain from using other laxatives or stool softeners unless your doctor advises you to do so. If you experience rectal bleeding or fail to have a bowel movement after using this drug, promptly discuss these symptoms with your doctor. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult with your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Severe abdominal cramping
- Bloating
- Intestinal obstruction (if not taken with enough fluid)
- Fecal impaction
What to Do:
If an overdose is suspected, especially if symptoms of obstruction (severe abdominal pain, vomiting, inability to pass gas or stool) occur, seek immediate medical attention. Ensure adequate fluid intake. Do NOT induce vomiting. Call 911 or your local poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222 in the US).
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Patients with suspected fecal impaction, intestinal obstruction, or acute abdominal pain (e.g., appendicitis, undiagnosed rectal bleeding).
Moderate Interactions
- Oral medications (e.g., digoxin, warfarin, salicylates, antibiotics, tricyclic antidepressants): May decrease absorption if taken concurrently. Administer other medications at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after methylcellulose.
Confidence Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Bowel movement frequency and consistency
Rationale: To establish baseline and assess treatment efficacy.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Hydration status
Rationale: Adequate fluid intake is crucial to prevent esophageal or intestinal obstruction.
Timing: Prior to initiation
Routine Monitoring
Bowel movement frequency and consistency
Frequency: Daily
Target: Regular, soft, formed stools
Action Threshold: If no bowel movement after 3 days, or if constipation worsens, discontinue and consult physician.
Abdominal discomfort/bloating
Frequency: Daily
Target: Minimal to none
Action Threshold: Persistent or severe abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating may indicate obstruction or impaction; discontinue and seek medical attention.
Symptom Monitoring
- Abdominal pain
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rectal bleeding
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain (if taken without enough fluid)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Methylcellulose is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy as it is not systemically absorbed. It is often recommended as a first-line treatment for constipation in pregnant women due to its safety profile.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk
Second Trimester:
Low risk
Third Trimester:
Low risk
Lactation
Methylcellulose is considered safe for use during lactation as it is not absorbed systemically by the mother and therefore not excreted in breast milk. It poses no known risk to the nursing infant.
Infant Risk:
L1 (Safest)
Pediatric Use
Use in children under 6 years should be under the guidance of a physician. Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent choking or obstruction. Dosing should be adjusted by age and weight.
Geriatric Use
Generally safe for elderly patients. Ensure adequate fluid intake, as elderly individuals may be more prone to dehydration. Start with the lowest effective dose and gradually increase if needed. Monitor for signs of impaction or obstruction, especially in those with reduced mobility or pre-existing bowel conditions.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always take methylcellulose with a full glass (at least 8 oz) of water or other liquid to prevent esophageal or intestinal obstruction.
- Do not take immediately before lying down.
- Onset of action is not immediate; it may take 12-72 hours for a bowel movement.
- This product is a fiber supplement and can be used daily to maintain regularity, not just for acute constipation.
- If you experience sudden changes in bowel habits that last for more than 2 weeks, consult a doctor before using laxatives.
- Avoid taking other oral medications within 2 hours of methylcellulose to prevent reduced absorption of those medications.
Alternative Therapies
- Psyllium (e.g., Metamucil)
- Polycarbophil (e.g., FiberCon)
- Wheat dextrin (e.g., Benefiber)
- Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol, lactulose, magnesium hydroxide)
- Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
- Stimulant laxatives (e.g., senna, bisacodyl) - generally for short-term use
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$15 - $30 per 850gm container
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Generally not covered by insurance as it is an over-the-counter (OTC) product, unless specifically prescribed and covered by certain plans (e.g., FSA/HSA eligible).
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe and effective treatment, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it is a good idea to consult with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.