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Overview

Methylcellulose

Prescription vs OTC : Prescription by Doctor required

About Methylcellulose

Methylcellulose is used to treat constipation and to help maintain regular bowel movements. Oral ingestion of methylcellulose will increase the mass of the stool, which will cause the GI tract (specifically large intestines) to become more distended and activate enteric reflexes. Thereby leading to increased GI motility and defecation.

The active constituent of this medication is a chemical compound taken from vegetable cellulose through heating with a caustic solution and treatment with methyl chloride. The end product is a white odourless powdery substance that swells up in the presence of liquid.

This has a wide range of applications and is used in many industries. In cooking, it is often used as a thickener and emulsifier. Sauces, dressings and ice creams are often produced with the help of this. This medication 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 usually taken 1 to 3 times per day. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than the recommended dose.

Overuse of a laxative may cause damage to the nerves, muscles, or tissues in your intestines. Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity. Other drugs may interact with methylcellulose, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

    Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist before using this medicine.

    What are the uses of Methylcellulose

    Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist before using this medicine.

    What are the contraindications of Methylcellulose ?

    • Hypersensitivity

    Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist before using this medicine.

    What are the side effects of Methylcellulose ?

    Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist before using this medicine.

    Key highlights of Methylcellulose

    • Is It safe with alcohol?

      No interaction found

    • Are there any pregnancy warnings?

      This medication may be unsafe to use during pregnancy.

    • Are there any breast-feeding warnings?

      Unknown. Human and animal studies are not available. Please consult your doctor.

    • Is it safe to drive while on this medicine?

      Patients should not drive if they have blurred vision.

    • Does this affect kidney function?

      There is no data available. Please consult a doctor before consuming the drug.

    • Does this affect liver function?

      There is no data available. Please consult a doctor before consuming the drug.

    Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist before using this medicine.

    What are the dosage instructions?

    • Are there any overdose instructions?

      Seek emergency medical treatment or contact the doctor in case of an overdose.

    • Are there any missed dose instructions?

      If you miss a dose of this medication, please consult your doctor.

    Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist before using this medicine.

    Medicines containing Methylcellulose

    Below is the list of medicines, which contains Methylcellulose as ingredient

    Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist before using this medicine.

    How does this medication work?

    This medication behaves as a stabilizer and thickener. It acts as a laxative by absorbing water in the gastrointestinal tract to increase the stool bulk, which stimulates peristalsis and relieves constipation. Increased bulk and consistency of stool also helps to prevent diarrhoea.

      Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist before using this medicine.

      FAQs about Methylcellulose

      • Ques : What is Methylcellulose?

        Ans : This medication also known as methyl cellulose is a chemical compound taken from vegetable cellulose through heating with a caustic solution and treatment with methyl chloride.

      • Ques : How long do I need to use Methylcellulose before I see improvement in my condition?

        Ans : This medication is to be taken till the time you see an improvement in your health conditions.

      • Ques : At what frequency do I need to use Methylcellulose?

        Ans : This medication is usually taken 1 to 3 times per day. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

      • Ques : Should I use Methylcellulose empty stomach, before food or after food?

        Ans : This medication should be taken after food in a prescribed dosage.

      • Ques : What are the instructions for the storage and disposal of Methylcellulose?

        Ans : This medication should be kept in a cool dry place and in its original packaging. Make sure this medication remains unreachable to children and pets.

      Disclaimer : The information produced here is best of our knowledge and experience and we have tried our best to make it as accurate and up-to-date as possible, but we would like to request that it should not be treated as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.

      Lybrate is a medium to provide our audience with the common information on medicines and does not guarantee its accuracy or exhaustiveness. Even if there is no mention of a warning for any drug or combination, it never means that we are claiming that the drug or combination is safe for consumption without any proper consultation with an expert.

      Lybrate does not take responsibility for any aspect of medicines or treatments. If you have any doubts about your medication, we strongly recommend you to see a doctor immediately.
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      Written ByDrx Hina FirdousPhD (Pharmacology) Pursuing, M.Pharma (Pharmacology), B.Pharma - Certificate in Nutrition and Child CarePharmacology
      Reviewed By
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      Reviewed ByDr. Garima SharmaMBBS, Master in Healthcare Administration, Diploma in Occupational HealthGeneral Physician
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