Why benefiber is used

It is recommended that at least four to eight ounces of water be taken with each dose. The powder form of Benefiber needs at least four ounces to completely dissolve, so those taking the powder are generally getting enough water 2. However, those taking the chewable form need to make sure they drink a full glass of water with each dose. Some previous Benefiber consumers have reported a dependency from the product 2. Research is still being done to support this clam.

The claim is that after an extensive period of time, the digestive tract becomes dependent on the amount of fiber consumed when taking Benefber.

After some of that fiber is removed, symptoms reappear. The way to prevent this is to always consume the recommended amount of fiber. It can also be used to ensure a person receives adequate fibre in their diet in cases such as:. Benefiber is a fibre supplement made from guar gum that has been slightly modified. It works by providing the body with fibre, which may be missing from the diet. Fibre acts to help increase the water content in stools, which helps soften them and makes them easier to evacuate.

Supplementation with Benefiber aims to help with mild constipation. The drug comes in 10 packs of 4g sachets or g cans. Mix one tablespoon with at least ml of any liquid or soft food and stir well.

Begin with one serve daily and increase as required. Side effects of Benefiber may occur when too much is taken and include diarrhoea. Other symptoms such as bloating and cramping may occur. In this case, reduce or cease usage of Benefiber and consult a doctor about the appropriate dose.

View more information about myVMC. This effect of slowing digestion also leaves you feeling fuller for a longer period of time, seeming to aid in weight loss. Your healthcare provider will provide recommendations on which type of fiber is best for your gut health.

Sign up for Benefiber price alerts and find out when the price changes! Benefiber is an OTC supplement that is not typically covered by commercial or Medicare insurance. Metamucil is also an OTC supplement that is not generally covered by commercial or Medicare insurance. Common packaging would be a box containing 44 dose packets of Metamucil powder.

The most reported side effect of fiber therapy is flatulence or the build-up of gas in the gastrointestinal tract. Adverse events associated with Benefiber and Metamucil appear to be relatively rare, but may also include stomach pain cramping and bloating. Frequency may be hard to define due to the variations in lengths of therapy as well as dosing. Patients taking Metamucil have reported nausea and vomiting, as well as asphyxiation, or choking.

Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions may occur. The following list is not intended to be a complete list of possible side effects. Please consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider for a complete list of possible side effects. Source: Metamucil , Benefiber. There are no known drug interactions with either Benefiber or Metamucil. Bulk-forming fiber like Metamucil may affect how other medications are absorbed. The manufacturer recommends that you take your Metamucil two hours before or two hours after your prescribed medication.

It is important to take Benefiber and Metamucil products with adequate amounts of fluid. Taking fiber therapy without adequate fluid intake can lead to esophageal blockage and choking. Do not take these products if you have difficulty swallowing. If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing or breathing, seek medical attention immediately. If you experience constipation for more than seven days or if you experience rectal bleeding while taking Benefiber or Metamucil, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Benefiber and Metamucil powders are gluten-free, though some other products made by these brands may not be. Patients with celiac disease should read the label and consult a healthcare professional to ensure the fiber product they have chosen is safe.

Benefiber is an OTC soluble fiber product indicated for dietary fiber supplementation. Benefiber can be used as a daily fiber supplement and is available in powder form as well as oral and chewable tablets. Metamucil is an OTC soluble fiber product indicated for dietary fiber supplementation. It can also be used as a daily fiber supplement and is indicated to treat occasional constipation, as well as to decrease risk factors for coronary artery disease.

Metamucil is available in powder form as well as oral capsules. Benefiber and Metamucil are both fiber supplements, but they are not the same. Benefiber contains wheat dextrin and is only approved as a fiber supplement. Metamucil contains psyllium, and in addition to being an approved fiber supplement, is also approved as a bulk-forming laxative. It also binds fatty acids to help lower LDL cholesterol.

Metamucil has been shown to be a more effective laxative due to the fact that it is not fermented in the human bowel.