Methycellulose

Citrucel (methylcellulose) is an over-the-counter (OTC) bulk producing fiber laxative used to relieve constipation (irregularity), help to restore and maintain regularity, for constipation associated with other bowel disorders like IBS when recommended by a doctor, and generally produces a bowel movement in 12-72 hours.

Adult Dosage Forms & Strengths

Caplet

500 mg

Powder

2g per scoop

Constipation

2 caplets up to 6 times per day; not to exceed 12 caplets per day; follow each dose with 8 oz. of water.

Alternatively, 1 heaping tablespoon (2 g) in 8 oz. water once per day to once every 8 hours.

Pediatric Dosage Forms & Strengths

Caplet

500 mg

Powder

2g per scoop

Constipation (6-11 years old)
<6 years of age, safety & efficacy not established.

6-12 years old

1 caplet up to 6 times per day; not to exceed 6 caplets per day

1 g (½ tablespoon) in 8 oz. of cold water; may increase to 1 tablespoon once every 8 hours

>12 years old

2 caplets up to 6 times per day; not to exceed 12 caplets per day; follow each dose with 8 oz. of water

Alternatively, 1 heaping tablespoon (2 g) in 8 oz. water once per day to once every 8 hours

Dosage Considerations
None.

Common side effects of Citrucel include:

• Flatulence (gas)
• Impaction
• Excessive bowel activity
• Abdominal pain

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider or pharmacist first for more information.

• Minor interactions: sodium picosulfate

This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Warnings

This medication contains methylcellulose. Do not take Citrucel if you are allergic to methylcellulose or any ingredients contained in this drug.

Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity, bowel obstruction, symptoms of appendicitis or acute surgical abdomen, GI ulceration/adhesions, fecal impaction, dysphagia, rectal bleeding

Effects of Drug Abuse

None.

Short-Term Effects

None.

Long-Term Effects

None.

Cautions

Choking: taking this product without adequate fluid may cause it to swell and block your throat or esophagus and may cause choking. Do not take this product if you have difficulty in swallowing. If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing or breathing after taking this product, seek immediate medical attention.

Ask a doctor before use if you have:

• a sudden change in bowel habits that persists for two weeks
• abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting

Ask a doctor before use if:

• constipation lasts more than 7 days
• you have rectal bleeding
These could be signs of a serious condition.

Pregnancy and Lactation

No information is available on use of Citrucel during pregnancy. It is considered a supplement, and not a drug. No data is available on use during lactation; Citrucel is not absorbed, unlikely to pose risk in breastfeeding.