Prototype: Psyllium (bulk forming laxative)

What are side effects of Metamucil (Psyllium)?

anorexia, *nausea, *vomiting, *cramps (if taken dry form), *flatulence, *diarrhea

What are Contraindications of Metamucil (Psyllium)?

hypersensitivity, fecal impaction, intestinal obstruction, abdominal pain, GI bleeding, dysphagia, appendicitis

What are diet measure that need to be considered when taking Metamucil (Psyllium)?

instruct pt to mix drug in 8 oz to 10 oz of wter, stir, and drink immediately. At least one glass of water should follow. Encourage pt to increase foods in fiber such as bran, grains, vegetables, and fruits. Tell pt to increase water intake of at least 8 oz per day

Metamucil (Psyllium) decreases absorption of which drugs?

oral anticoagulants, aspirin, and digoxin

Which pts can use bulk forming laxatives?

pts with diverticulosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and ileostomy and colostomy

What are nursing care measures for a pt taking Metamucil (Psyllium)?

teach pt to mix drug with water immediately before use to avoid GI obstruction, advise pt not to swallow drug in dry form, advise pt to avoid inhaling psyllium dust 9may cause watery eyes, runny nose, and wheezing)

What are therapeutic effects/uses of Metamucil (Psyllium)?

to control chronic constipation

**Compare and contrast the stimulant and bulk forming laxatives?

-Stimulants (contact or irritants): increases peristalsis by irritating nerve endings in the intestinal mucosa. Several drugs including Bisacodyl are used to empty the bowel before diagnostic testing (barium enema) -Bulk forming: promote large, soft stools by absorbing water into the intestine, increasing fecal bulk and peristalsis. These agents are nonabsorbable/nondigestable and defection usually occurs within 8 to 24 hrs; however may take 3 days for stool to be soft an well formed.

What are adverse reactions of Metamucil (Psyllium)?

-esophageal or intestinal obstruction id not taken with adequate water -life threatening: bronchospasm, anaphylaxis

What is the onset of action for Metamucil (Psyllium)?

12-72 hrs

What is Psyllium Drug Class?

Laxative: bulk forming Trade Name: Metamucil