Brand name Celevac
Used in the following combined preparations None
General Information
Methylcellulose is a laxative used for the treatment of constipation, diverticular disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. Taken by mouth, methylcellulose is not absorbed into the bloodstream but remains in the intestine. It absorbs up to 25 times its volume of water, thereby softening faeces and increasing their volume. It is also used to reduce the frequency and increase the firmness of faeces in chronic watery diarrhoea, and to control the consistency of faeces after colostomies and ileostomies.
Methylcellulose preparations are also used with appropriate dieting in some cases of obesity. The bulking agent swells to give a feeling of fullness, thereby encouraging adherence to a reducing diet.
Methylcellulose is found in contact lens irrigation solutions and in various lotions, creams, ointments, and pastes.
Quick Reference
Drug group Laxative and antidiarrhoeal drug.
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed No
Available as generic No
Information for Users
Follow instructions on the label. Call your doctor if symptoms worsen.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
1-4 x daily. Unless otherwise instructed, take with a full glass of water.
Adult dosage range
1.5-6g daily.
Onset of effect
Within 24 hours.
Duration of action
Up to 3 days.
Diet advice
If taken as a laxative, drink plenty of fluids, at least 6-8 glasses daily.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. Take the next dose as scheduled.
Stopping the drug
Can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
Possible Adverse Effects
When taken by mouth, the drug may cause bloating and excess wind. Insufficient fluid intake may cause blockage of the oesophagus (gullet) or intestine. Consult your doctor if you
experience severe abdominal pain or if you have no bowel movement for 2 days after taking methylcellulose.
Special Precautions
Be sure to consult your doctor before taking this drug if:
You have severe constipation and/or abdominal pain.
You have unexplained rectal bleeding.
You have difficulty swallowing.
You vomit readily.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
No evidence of risk to developing baby.
Breast-feeding
No evidence of risk.
Infants and children
Reduced dose necessary.
Over 60
No special problems.
Driving and hazardous work
No known problems.
Alcohol
No known problems.
Interactions
None.
Prolonged Use
No problems expected.
