What is Fybogel?
Fybogel is a natural fibre supplement containing Ispaghula Husk, a plant-based source of dietary fibre. This supplement offers a simple way to boost your daily fibre intake, helping to maintain a healthy and efficient digestive system. By gently easing constipation, Fybogel supports regular bowel movements without causing discomfort or sudden urges, making it a mild yet effective option for improving digestive health.
Fybogel is ideal for increasing fibre intake, especially in cases of constipation, including during pregnancy. It’s also helpful when a high-fibre diet is needed to promote better digestion or manage specific digestive conditions.
What is the active ingredient in Fybogel?
Fybogel contains 3.5g of Ispaghula Husk per sachet, which is the active ingredient that helps improve digestion and relieve constipation.
What is Fybogel used for?
Fybogel is used to:
- Relieve constipation.
- Help regulate bowel movements and make stools easier to pass.
- Support normal bowel function in people with an ileostomy or colostomy, as well as those with chronic diarrhea due to conditions like diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis, or IBS.
Fybogel works by naturally stimulating the bowel to ease constipation and soften stools. It is safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it may take up to three days to feel the full effect.
How does Fybogel work?
Fybogel contains Ispaghula husk, which is a natural fibre that works as a bulk-forming laxative. When it absorbs fluid in the gut, it increases stool volume. This added bulk helps stimulate the muscles in the bowel, encouraging them to move the contents through the digestive system and easing constipation. It may take up to three days to notice an improvement in digestion.
Who should not take Fybogel?
Do not take Fybogel if:
- You are allergic to Ispaghula husk or any of the other ingredients. Check the patient information leaflet for a full list.
- You have noticed a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted for more than two weeks.
- You have a bowel obstruction (intestinal blockage or fecal impaction).
- You suffer from a weakened bowel wall (colonic atony).
- You have a naturally slow gut motility (reduced speed at which material moves through your gut).
- You have difficulty swallowing or experience throat problems.
Let your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse know if:
- You have phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder, as Fybogel contains aspartame, which includes phenylalanine.
- You notice unexplained rectal bleeding or are unable to pass stools after using laxatives.
- Your symptoms do not improve or worsen after 3 days of use.
- You have trouble swallowing or other throat issues.
Take special care if:
- You are a healthcare worker or caregiver, as inhaling the powder may cause allergic reactions.
- You do not take Fybogel with enough liquid, as this could lead to chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.
- You are elderly or frail, and may need medical supervision when using this product.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
- Fybogel is safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Important information for specific conditions:
- Each sachet contains 16 mg of aspartame, which is a source of phenylalanine. If you have PKU, this could be harmful.
- Fybogel contains less than 1 mmol of sodium (23 mg) per sachet, meaning it is essentially "sodium-free."
- Each sachet contains 0.25 mmol (9.76 mg) of potassium. If you have reduced kidney function or are on a controlled potassium diet, consult your doctor before using.
What are the side effects of Fybogel?
Like any medication, Fybogel may cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Some potential side effects include:
- Allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, skin rash, or itching. In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction may occur.
- Exposure to allergens in Fybogel, which may cause red or itchy eyes, a runny or blocked nose, or a skin rash from skin contact, inhalation, or oral intake.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
When first taking Fybogel, the added fiber in your diet might cause gas (flatulence) or bloating. These effects usually reduce as your body adjusts.
If you notice any other symptoms or experience side effects not listed here, inform your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard. Reporting side effects helps improve the safety of this medication.
Does Fybogel interact with other medicines?
Fybogel may interact with certain medications, so it is important to be cautious if you are taking other drugs. You should avoid using Fybogel with:
- Medications that can cause constipation, such as codeine or morphine.
Additionally, it is recommended to wait at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before or after taking the following medications:
- Insulin: If you have diabetes and take insulin, you may need to adjust your insulin dose when using Fybogel.
- Medications for thyroid issues: Your doctor may need to modify your thyroid hormone dose if you are using Fybogel.
Always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Fybogel to ensure it is safe alongside your current medications. You can order Fybogel from courierpharmacy.co.uk after completing an online consultation form.
Fybogel FAQs
What is Fybogel and what is it used for?
Fybogel is a high-fibre treatment that helps relieve constipation. These granules dissolve quickly in water to form a pleasant drink. The formula is sugar-free, gluten-free, and contains ispaghula husk, a natural fibre that supports regular bowel movements.
Fybogel is available in three flavours—orange, lemon, and plain—and comes in boxes of 30 sachets. It is produced by Forum Health and distributed by Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare.
What is Fybogel used for?
Fybogel is used to:
- Relieve constipation.
- Regulate bowel movements and ease stool passage.
- Support normal bowel function in people with conditions like ileostomy, colostomy, chronic diarrhoea, diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Fybogel works by naturally stimulating the bowel and softening stools. It is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Results may take up to three days.
How does Fybogel work?
The active ingredient in Fybogel, ispaghula husk, is a bulk-forming laxative. It absorbs fluid in the gut, increasing stool volume. This added bulk stimulates the muscles in the intestines, encouraging movement and helping to relieve constipation. It may take up to three days to notice improvements in digestion.
Does Fybogel cause weight loss?
Fybogel helps with constipation by making it easier for stools to pass, which can reduce bloating. However, Fybogel is not intended for weight loss and will not cause fat reduction.
Are there any alternatives to Fybogel?
You can manage constipation with alternatives like drinking plenty of water, exercising, and eating a diet rich in fibre. Fybogel works by addressing low fibre intake and does not contain chemical stimulants.
How to use Fybogel Hi-Fibre Sachets
To use Fybogel, stir one sachet into 150 ml of water and drink once the fizzing subsides. For best results, take it after meals and avoid using it just before bedtime.
How long does Fybogel take to work?
You should notice improvements in your bowel movements within 2-3 days. If you don't have a bowel movement after three days, consult your doctor.
Fybogel dosage
- Adults and children over 12: Take one sachet in the morning and one in the evening, or as directed by your doctor.
- Children aged 6-12 years: Take half a teaspoon to one 5 ml level spoonful, twice a day, depending on the child's age and size.
If no bowel movement occurs after 3 days, consult your doctor.
What are the ingredients in Fybogel?
Each sachet contains 3.5g of ispaghula husk. Other ingredients include:
- Aspartame and saccharin sodium sweeteners
- Potassium bicarbonate
- Sodium bicarbonate
- Polysorbate 80
- Silica colloidal anhydrous
- Citric acid
- Riboflavin sodium phosphate (colouring)
What are the side effects of Fybogel?
Some people may experience bloating or flatulence when they first start taking Fybogel, due to increased fibre intake. These symptoms usually improve over time. If they persist or you notice other side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Always take Fybogel with water and follow the recommended dosage.
Who should not take Fybogel?
You should not take Fybogel if:
- You are allergic to any of its ingredients.
- You have a bowel obstruction or weakened bowel muscles.
- You have phenylketonuria (PKU), as it contains aspartame.
Always read the packaging and the Product Information Leaflet before using any new medication. Inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking or plan to take.
You can order Fybogel online at courierpharmacy.co.uk after completing an online consultation form.
