How to Take Psyllium Husk Fiber Supplements │Metamucil (2025)

FAQs

How to Take Psyllium Husk Fiber Supplements │Metamucil? ›

Take it with fluids.

You can take Metamucil at any time of day. But it's a good idea to avoid taking it at bedtime. This may help you avoid bothersome side effects, such as dehydration and having to go to the bathroom at night. If Metamucil isn't helping your constipation after about a week, contact your healthcare professional.

Ages 12 years and older: Mix 3.4 grams (1 packet or 1 tablespoon) with 8 ounces of water or other cool liquid up to 3 times a day. Ages 6 to 11 years old: Mix 1.7 grams (½ packet or ½ tablespoon) with 8 ounces of water or other cool liquid up to 3 times a day.

Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 240 mL of water or liquid per serving) is consumed.

May be taken with or without food. Mix Metamucil powder with at least 8 ounces of water or fruit juice before drinking straight away. Do not swallow the dry powder. Avoid breathing in the powder when mixing as this may cause a runny nose, watery eyes, and wheezing.

Typical Metamucil (psyllium husk) side effects include nausea, gas, and bloating or cramping. Diarrhea or constipation are also possible. These common Metamucil side effects are typically mild for most people. Rarely, Metamucil can cause bowel obstructions.

One study found that taking up to 10.2 g of psyllium before breakfast and lunch led to significant reductions in hunger, desire to eat, and increased fullness between meals compared to a placebo.

Metamucil^® is the only leading fiber supplement brand^ with 100% natural psyllium fiber — and that makes all the difference. Psyllium husk, a natural dietary fiber originating from plantago ovata, has been the source of both soluble and insoluble fiber in Metamucil for 80 years.

Is it safe to take psyllium husk every day? ›

Taking fiber supplements every day seems to be safe. Popular fiber supplements include inulin, psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, others) and methylcellulose (Citrucel). Fiber is good for the body. It helps the bowel work well and prevents constipation.

You can also take Metamucil capsules and thins to get psyllium husk fiber into your diet. If you want to add psyllium husk into your morning or nighttime routine, powders may be the route for you. Metamucil capsules and thins, however, could be a great option if your life is more on-the-go.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication? Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible: Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Choking—chest pain, trouble swallowing or breathing, vomiting.

Taking Metamucil before bed can lead to discomfort, disrupted sleep, and potential dehydration due to its fiber-absorbing properties. Additionally, it may interfere with medication absorption. For better results and fewer side effects, consider taking Metamucil at a different time of the day as advised by a doctor.

This product must be taken with at least a full glass of water or other liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters) so that it will not swell in the throat, causing choking. Get medical help right away if after taking this product you have symptoms of choking such as: chest pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing/breathing.

Metamucil and Citrucel should not be used for more than 1 week as treatment for constipation. As an osmotic laxative, Miralax powder should be dosed once a day and dissolved in half to one cup of water. Miralax may take a few days to see the full effect. Miralax should not be used for more than 1 week for constipation.

in an 8 oz. glass of water once a day), then gradually increase the dose as needed. Your health care provider may recommend higher doses of psyllium to treat certain conditions. You can take psyllium first thing in the morning or before bedtime.

Metamucil (psyllium husk) is an over-the-counter supplement used most commonly for constipation. But it has other benefits and is a good source of fiber. Common Metamucil side effects include gas, bloating, and nausea. It can also cause diarrhea or constipation.

Gas or stomach cramping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.

A: Five Metamucil Capsules are approximately equivalent to one serving of Metamucil Powder. Depending on the benefits one wants to get from the product, one can use a different number of Capsules. For adding some dietary fiber to the diet, one can take as little as 2 Capsules per serving.