Calcium Polycarbophil Chewable tablet

Brand Names: Fiber Lax Caplets, Polycarb, Equalactin, Konsyl Fiber, Fibertab, Fiber Lax, Perdiem Fiber Caplet, Fiberlax, Mitrolan, Fibernorm, See more brands »

Brand Names: Fiber Lax Caplets, Polycarb, Equalactin, Konsyl Fiber, Fibertab, Fiber Lax, Perdiem Fiber Caplet, Fiberlax, Mitrolan, Fibernorm, FiberCon, Fiber TabsSee fewer brands »

What is this medicine?

POLYCARBOPHIL (pol i KAR boe fil) is a bulk-forming fiber laxative. It is used to add more fiber into your diet. This medicine is also used to treat constipation.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• change in bowel habits for more than 14 days
• blocked intestines or bowel
• high levels of calcium in your blood
• kidney disease
• phenylketonuria
• stomach pain, nausea or vomiting
• trouble swallowing
• an unusual or allergic reaction to polycarbophil, soy, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Chew it completely before swallowing. Follow the directions on the package label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• digoxin
• estramustine
• ethotoin
• phenytoin
• some antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, levofloxacin, tetracycline
• strontium-89 chloride
• thyroid hormones

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

This medicine can take up to 3 days to work. Check with your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse. See your doctor if you have to treat your constipation for more than 1 week.

Avoid taking other medicines within 2 hours of taking this medicine.

Drink several glasses of water a day while you are taking this medicine. This will help to relieve constipation and prevent dehydration.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• chest pain
• nausea, vomiting
• rectal bleeding
• trouble swallowing

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea
• stomach bloat, cramps, gas

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.