Important Note:

The Following Information Is Intended To Supplement, Not Substitute For, The Expertise And Judgment Of Your Physician, Pharmacist Or Other Healthcare Professional. It Should Not Be Construed To Indicate That Use Of The Drug Is Safe, Appropriate, Or Effective For You. Consult Your Healthcare Professional Before Using This Drug.

polycarbophil - Oral

(paw-lee-karb-uh-fill)

Common Brand Name(s): Equalactin, Konsyl Fiber, Mitrolan, Polycarb

Uses:

Polycarbophil Restores Normal Moisture Levels To The Intestine And Helps Produce Well-formed Stools. It Is Used To Treat Certain Types Of Diarrhea Or Constipation.

How To Use:

Take Each Dose With A Full Glass Of Water And Drink Plenty Of Fluids While Taking This Medication. Chewable Tablets Are To Be Chewed Thoroughly Before Swallowing Followed By A Full Glass Of Water. Regular Tablets Can Be Swallowed With A Full Glass Of Water.

Side Effects:

This Medication Is Generally Well Tolerated. Bloating, Gas, And A Feeling Of Fullness May Occur. If These Effects Continue Or Become Bothersome, Inform Your Doctor. Notify Your Doctor If You Experience Any Of The Following Effects: Stomach Cramps, Nausea, Vomiting, Rectal Bleeding, Unrelieved Constipation. If You Notice Other Effects Not Listed Above, Contact Your Doctor Or Pharmacist.

Precautions:

Tell Your Doctor If You Have Any Of The Following Conditions: Illness, Any Allergies. This Medication Should Be Used Only If Clearly Needed During Pregnancy. Discuss The Risks And Benefits With Your Doctor. This Medication Does Not Appear In Breast Milk. However, You Should Consult Your Doctor Before Using Any Medication While Breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:

Because Laxatives May Interfere With The Absorption Of Some Medications, It Is Important To Tell Your Doctor Of Any Over-the-counter Or Prescription Medication You May Take. Do Not Start Or Stop Any Medicine Without Doctor Or Pharmacist Approval.

Overdose:

If Overdose Is Suspected, Contact Your Local Poison Control Center Or Emergency Room Immediately.

Notes:

Bulk-producing Laxatives Are The Safest And Most Natural Of All The Laxatives. To Maintain Normal Bowel Habits, It Is Important To Drink Plenty Of Fluids (4 To 6 8 Ounce Glasses A Day), Increase Your Intake Of Fiber And Roughage And Exercise Regularly.

Missed Dose:

If You Miss A Dose, Take It As Soon As Remembered; Do Not Take It If It Is Near The Time For The Next Dose, Instead, Skip The Missed Dose And Resume Your Usual Dosing Schedule. Do Not "double-up" The Dose To Catch Up.

Storage:

Store At Room Temperature Between 59 And 86 Degrees F (15 To 30 Degrees C) Away From Heat And Moisture. Do Not Store In The Bathroom.