What it is used for
- Relieving occasional constipation when increased dietary fibre and fluids are insufficient
- Increasing stool bulk and easing passage when a bulk-forming laxative is suitable
How it is used
- Mix the sachet contents into the amount of liquid stated in the leaflet and drink promptly before it thickens
- Drink enough fluid afterwards and through the day unless your doctor has restricted fluids
- Never swallow the powder dry or take it while lying down
- Follow the leaflet and ask a pharmacist; do not continue if constipation persists or keeps returning
- Separate it from other oral medicines as the pharmacist advises
Possible side effects
- Bloating or wind
- Abdominal fullness or cramps
- Diarrhoea if the product does not suit you
- Rarely, choking or blockage of the gullet or bowel when fluid is insufficient
Who should not use it
- Difficulty swallowing or narrowing of the gullet
- Bowel obstruction, faecal impaction or loss of bowel movement
- Unexplained abdominal pain, vomiting or rectal bleeding
- Allergy to agar or any product ingredient
Before and while using it
- Seek immediate help for chest pain or difficulty breathing or swallowing after taking it
- Severe abdominal pain, increasing swelling, vomiting or inability to pass wind or stool can indicate obstruction
- Do not use it if you cannot drink enough fluid or have a strict fluid restriction unless medically directed
- Persistent constipation, changed bowel habits or blood requires assessment rather than repeated laxative use
- Combination products may contain other laxatives, salts or sugars with different warnings
Medicine interactions
- Fibre may delay absorption of oral medicines; ask the pharmacist about appropriate separation
- Medicines that slow bowel movement can increase obstruction risk and need review
- Closely monitored diabetes, thyroid or epilepsy medicines may require special timing
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Agar is not normally absorbed, but ask a doctor or pharmacist before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding and confirm that any combination product is suitable
How to store it
- Keep sachets dry and closed at the temperature stated in the leaflet, out of children's reach
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.