PO (Adults ): 1–2 tsp/packet/wafer (3–6 g psyllium) in or with a full glass of liquid 2–3 times daily. Up to 30 g daily in divided doses.
PO (Children >6 yr): 1 tsp/packet/wafer (1.5–3 g psyllium) in or with 4–8 oz glass of liquid 2–3 times daily. Up to 15 g daily in divided doses.
Availability⬆⬇
(Generic available)
Powder: 3.3–3.5 g/dose or packetOTC
Effervescent powder: 3–3.5 g/dose or packetOTC
Granules: 2.5 g/doseOTC
Wafers: 3.4 g/doseOTC
Assessment⬆⬇
Assess patient for abdominal distention, presence of bowel sounds, and usual pattern of bowel function.
Assess color, consistency, and amount of stool produced.
Lab Test Considerations:
May cause elevated blood glucose levels with prolonged use of preparations containing sugar.
Implementation⬆⬇
Packets are not standardized for volume, but each contains 3–3.5 g of psyllium.
PO: Administer with a full glass of water or juice, followed by an additional glass of liquid. Solution should be taken immediately after mixing; it will congeal. Do not administer without sufficient fluid and do not chew granules.
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Encourage patient to use other forms of bowel regulation, such as increasing bulk in the diet, increasing fluid intake, and increasing mobility. Normal bowel habits are individualized and may vary from 3 times/day to 3 times/wk.
May be used for long-term management of chronic constipation.
Instruct patients with cardiac disease to avoid straining during bowel movements (Valsalva maneuver).
Advise patient not to use laxatives when abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever is present.
Evaluation/Desired Outcomes⬆⬇
A soft, formed bowel movement, usually within 12–24 hr. May require 3 days of therapy for results.
