Psyllium

Psyllium
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Other Brands/Names

Infip, Babel, Biome DTX, Night Nature, S Green, Tru Clenz,men, Lifiber, Vegetta Scrubber.

 

How It Works

Psyllium is a fiber derived from the seed husks of the Plantago ovata plant, also known as Ispaghula. It functions as a stool-forming laxative, working by absorbing water in the intestines, which helps make bowel movements easier. Psyllium can improve bowel regularity without causing bloating. It can be taken in a single dose to relieve constipation or added to the daily diet to support digestive health and regularity.

 

Indications

Psyllium is primarily used as a laxative to relieve constipation or difficulty with bowel movements. However, studies show that it also supports the health of various organs in the body, including the heart and pancreas.

 

Contraindications

  • Previous history of psychedium allergies.
  • Patients with the following health problems: Fecal impaction (a condition where stool becomes hard and cannot be expelled from the colon or rectum, often due to chronic constipation), intestinal obstruction, and decreased bowel movements.

 

Side Effects

Common side effects of psyllium include:

  • Bloating

  • Gastrointestinal impaction or blockage

  • Allergic reactions such as red, itchy rashes, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath

Seek immediate medical attention if any serious allergic reactions occur after using psyllium.

 

Types

Psyllium is available in powder (sachets) and capsules.

 

Dosage

  • Adults: 3.5 g, 1-3 times daily, mixed with a full glass of water.

  • Children 12 years and older: Each 5 mL measuring spoon contains 1.75 g of psyllium. Take half (2.5 mL) to one full 5 mL measuring spoon (morning and evening), dissolved in water.

 

Safety

There is no specific safety data available for psyllium use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult with your doctor before taking psyllium during these times.

 

Drug Interactions

Psyllium may delay or reduce the absorption of other medications, including cardiac glycosides, coumarin derivatives, lithium, vitamins (e.g., vitamin B12), and minerals (e.g., calcium, iron, and zinc).

 

Looking for more information about other drugs? Click here!

 

 

Writer : dr David Wiliam
Editor :
  • dr Hanifa Rahma
Last Updated : Sunday, 10 August 2025 | 22:09

BPOM RI. Psyllium. cekbpom.pom.go.id. Retrieved 3 February 2022, from https://cekbpom.pom.go.id//home/produk/69bhknndt7v4km8sdutf8ashf5/all/row/10/page/1/order/4/DESC/search/5/psyllium 

MIMS Indonesia. Ispaghula Husk. Mims.com. Retrieved 3 February 2022, from https://www.mims.com/indonesia/drug/info/ispaghula%20husk?mtype=generic 

Healthline. The Health Benefits of Psyllium. Healthline.com. Retrieved 3 February 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/psyllium-health-benefits 

 

NCBI. Psyllium. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved 3 February 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501346/