What is polycarbophil?
Polycarbophil is a bulk-forming laxative that increases the amount of water in your stools to help make them softer and easier to pass.
Polycarbophil is used to treat constipation and to help maintain regular bowel movements.
Polycarbophil may also be used in some cases to treat diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome.
Polycarbophil may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about polycarbophil?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to polycarbophil or to mineral oil, sodium laurel sulfate, or povidone (such as Betadine).
Before using polycarbophil, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have trouble swallowing, a blockage in your intestines, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, a history of bleeding from your rectum, or a sudden change in your bowel habits that has lasted for 2 weeks or longer.
Ask your doctor before taking polycarbophil if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
The polycarbophil tablet may expand in your throat and cause you to choke if you do not use enough liquid to help swallow the pill. Be sure to drink a full 8-ounce glass of water or other liquid while swallowing the regular tablet or after chewing the chewable tablet.
Polycarbophil is usually taken up to 4 times per day. Do not take more than recommended by your doctor or listed on the medicine label.
Polycarbophil should cause you to have a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours.
Do not take polycarbophil for longer than 7 days unless your doctor tells you to.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking polycarbophil?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to polycarbophil or to mineral oil, sodium laurel sulfate, or povidone (such as Betadine).
Before using polycarbophil, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
trouble swallowing;
a blockage in your intestines;
stomach pain with nausea or vomiting;
a history of bleeding from your rectum; or
a sudden change in your bowel habits that has lasted for 2 weeks or longer.
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to take polycarbophil, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.
Ask your doctor before taking polycarbophil if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Some forms of polycarbophil may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this medication if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
Do not give this medicine to a young child without the advice of a doctor.