Health benefits beyond irregularity

A. Psyllium husk is a form of bulk-forming dietary fibre. It is the active ingredient in all Metamucil fiber powders and capsules.

A. Soluble fibres dissolve in liquid, whereas insoluble fibres do not. There are viscous and non-viscous types of soluble fibre. Viscous, soluble fibre (e.g., psyllium fibre in Metamucil) forms a viscous gel, whereas insoluble fibres do not form gels and move through the GI tract largely intact. Soluble, non-viscous fibre dissolves entirely in liquid and serves only to increase daily fibre intake. It offers no additional health benefits at normal serving sizes. Metamucil (psyllium fibre) is unique because it is rich in viscous, soluble fibre (70-80%) and insoluble fibre. Both types of fibre are important parts of a healthy diet. To see why Metamucil’s gel action is different, please visit our product info page.

A. Currently, Metamucil does not offer free patient samples. However, we do have patient brochures with coupons available to order through the Physicians Pharmalink program. To stay up to date about future sample programs, please subscribe to our newsletter

A. Only Metamucil Fibre + Collagen contains added collagen. This product offers added health benefits from other Metamucil products, such as being a source of essential amino acids and helping to reduce joint pain.

A: Metamucil powder formulations deliver approximately 2.4 g of soluble fibre per serving. Metamucil capsules deliver 1.8 grams of soluble fibre.

A. All Metamucil powder products contain the same amount of psyllium husk per serving, which equates to 2.4 grams of soluble fibre. However, serving size amounts differ by version because the sweeteners and flavourings used in each Metamucil product vary in volume and density. Have patients check the label on their products to ensure they are getting the right amount for the benefits desired.

A. No. The product should be used per the label directions.

A: No, Metamucil powders do not provide all the same benefits. Metamucil capsules and powders both contain psyllium husk. Please refer to the product information page to learn more about the specific benefits of each product.

A: The servings of capsules required to provide specific benefits is different depending on the desired benefit. Check the product label for specific information.

A: Bulk fibre supplements may affect how well other medications work. If your patients are taking a prescription medication by mouth, they should take Metamucil at least two hours before or two hours after their prescribed medicine.

A: Psyllium husk is a soluble viscous fibre that forms a gel, which traps sugars in the GI tract from food, as the gel moves through the intestines. Trapped sugars are slowly released and absorbed into the body helping maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

A. Metamucil should not cause diarrhea when used as directed. On the contrary, Metamucil can absorb and retain water to make loose stools less watery. Many doctors believe that a bulk fibre can help make bowel movements more formed and less fluid. In at least eight studies done on Metamucil and psyllium (Metamucil's fibre ingredient), psyllium was shown to improve the viscosity of loose stools and make stools firmer.

A: All oral prescription medications are covered by this label precaution.

A: This product may cause an allergic reaction in people sensitive to inhaled or ingested psyllium.

A: Yes, Metamucil powders are labeled for relief of irregularity by children 6-12 years old, who can use 1/2 of the labeled adult dose up to 3 times daily. 12 and older can use 1 dose up to 3 times daily. Follow the labeled direction for the specific product as the size of a dose is different depending on which product is being used. Metamucil products are not labeled for use by children for the blood sugar, cholesterol, and appetite control benefits. Always follow the dosing direction on the individual product.

A: The active ingredient in Metamucil is a natural plant fibre that is a great source of soluble and insoluble fibre.

A. All Metamucil Powders and Capsules are gluten-free (less than 20 ppm). Meta Fibre Thins, however, contain gluten (Apple Crisp 0.7 grams/serving; Cinnamon Spice 0.5 grams/serving).

A: Yes, Metamucil offers NEW Premium Blend Sugar-Free Orange Powder (sweetened with Stevia) along with Sugar-Free Orange / Berry / Pink Lemonade Powder (sweetened with aspartame) and No Added Sweeteners Original Powder (no sweeteners added). Metamucil Capsules and Metamucil Capsules Plus Calcium do not contain any sugar, sweeteners or artificial sweeteners.

A Caloric content varies by specific product. There are, however, sugar free Metamucil powders and capsules that have fewer calories.

A: Metamucil Fibre Capsules and Metamucil Capsules Plus Calcium contain gelatin. Metamucil has not gone through certification to be Kosher.