Psyllium
Psyllium is a soluble, gel-forming dietary fiber derived from the husks of the Plantago ovata plant's seeds. It works by absorbing liquid in the intestines, swelling to create a soft, bulky stool that stimulates natural bowel contractions. It must always be taken with plenty of fluids to avoid choking and intestinal blockage.
Dosage by Body Weight
For adults and children 12 years and older: Mix 1 rounded teaspoon or packet (approx. 3.4g to 6g) in 8 ounces of liquid, 1 to 3 times daily. For children 6 to 11 years: Use half the adult dose in 8 ounces of liquid. Always consume immediately and follow with additional water. Do not take close to bedtime or immediately before lying down.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Psyllium and other bulk-forming laxatives are not safe for use in infants.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Strictly avoid bulk-forming laxatives in this age group due to high risk of dehydration and bowel obstruction.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Consult a pediatrician. Dietary fiber adjustments are preferred over fiber supplements.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Consult a pediatrician. If prescribed, ensure the child drinks an adequate amount of water to prevent choking.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 1.25g to 2.5g of powder
- Frequency
- 1 time daily
- Tracking Notes
- For children over 6 years old. Must be mixed thoroughly with at least 4 to 8 ounces of cold liquid and swallowed immediately under adult supervision.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Psyllium and other bulk-forming laxatives are not safe for use in infants. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Strictly avoid bulk-forming laxatives in this age group due to high risk of dehydration and bowel obstruction. |
| 8-10 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Consult a pediatrician. Dietary fiber adjustments are preferred over fiber supplements. |
| 11-15 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Consult a pediatrician. If prescribed, ensure the child drinks an adequate amount of water to prevent choking. |
| 16-20 kg | 1.25g to 2.5g of powder | 1 time daily | For children over 6 years old. Must be mixed thoroughly with at least 4 to 8 ounces of cold liquid and swallowed immediately under adult supervision. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used as a bulk-forming laxative to treat occasional constipation, promote bowel regularity, and assist in lowering cholesterol levels when used in conjunction with a low-fat diet.
Generic Name
Psyllium huskBranded Drug Names
Psyllium is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.