Drug Reference

Methylcellulose

Bulk-forming laxatives

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OTC

Fact box

Therapeutic class
Bulk-forming laxatives
Habit forming
No
Availability
Over-the-counter (OTC)

Brand names

Citrucel

Available as

2000 MG · Powder500 MG · Oral Tablet10 MG/ML · Ophthalmic Solution

FDA label sections are from openFDA and may not reflect the most recent labeling — confirm against the current DailyMed label.

Uses
Uses • relieves constipation (irregularity) • helps to restore and maintain regularity • for treating bowel disorders when recommended by a doctor • generally provide effect in 12-72 hours
How to use / dosing
Directions • MIX THIS PRODUCT (CHILD OR ADULT DOSE) WITH AT LEAST 8 OUNCES (A FULL GLASS) OF WATER OR OTHER FLUID. TAKING THIS PRODUCT WITHOUT ENOUGH LIQUID MAY CAUSE CHOKING. SEE CHOKING WARNING • use product at the first sign of constipation or irregularity • put one dose in a full glass of cold water • stir briskly and drink promptly • drinking another glass of water is helpful Age Dose adults & children above 12 years of age and over one rounded tablespoon. (19 g) in 8 ounces of water fluid up to 3 times daily at the first sign of constipation or irregularity children 6 - 12 years of age half the adult dose in 8 ounces of water once daily. children under 6 years of age ask a doctor

Safety advice

Conservative summary derived from FDA labeling — defaults to “consult your doctor” unless the label is explicit. Not a substitute for your clinician’s advice.

PregnancyNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
BreastfeedingNo information
No specific information in the FDA label. Check LactMed →
AlcoholNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
DrivingNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
KidneyNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
LiverNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
Warnings & precautions
Warnings CHOKING: taking this product without adequate fluid may cause it to swell and block your throat or esophagus and may cause choking. Do not take this product if you have difficulty in swallowing. If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing or breathing after taking this product, seek immediate medical attention. Ask a doctor before use if you have • abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting • a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks • sensitivity to any of the ingredients Stop use and ask a doctor if • you have rectal bleeding • you fail to have a bowl movement after use. • These could be signs of a serious condition. Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. When using this product • do not exceed recommended maximum daily dose unless directed by a doctor • do not use laxative products for a period longer than one week unless directed by a doctor
Current FDA labels (DailyMed)

5 marketed products on record (RxNorm)

Authoritative sources

Reference only — not clinical advice. Verify against current FDA labeling and consult a licensed provider. About half of pediatric drug use is off-label and is not reflected in FDA labels; absence of pediatric information does not mean a medicine is unused or unsafe in children.