Drugs & Vitamins

Konsyl tablets Active Ingredients: Polycarbophil tablets, caplets, and chewable tablets Representative Names: Equalactin tablets, FiberCon caplets, Konsyl tablets What are Polycarbophil tablets, caplets, and chewable tablets? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should this medicine be used? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with Polycarbophil? What side effects may I notice from receiving Polycarbophil? What should I watch for while taking Polycarbophil? Where can I keep my medicine? What are Polycarbophil tablets, caplets, and chewable tablets? (Back to top) POLYCARBOPHIL (Equalactin®, Fiberall®, FiberCon®, Fiber-Lax®, Konsyl®, and others) is a bulk-forming laxative. When taken by mouth, polycarbophil absorbs water in the intestines and colon. This regulates the bulk (size), consistency, and movement of the stool. It is used to treat constipation or the signs and symptoms of irritable bowel disease (IBS). Polycarbophil is available without a prescription as tablets, caplets, or chewable tablets. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •difficuly swallowing •fever •high levels of calcium in your blood •intestinal or bowel blockage •kidney problems •stomach pain •vomiting •an unusual reaction to Polycarbophil, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should this medicine be used? (Back to top) Take polycarbophil by mouth. Do not take more often than directed. When using polycarbophil for the treatment or prevention of constipation, drink plenty of fluids. If you are using non-chewable tablets or caplets, always take each dose with at least 1 full glass of water or other liquid (roughly 8 ounces). If you are using the chewable tablets, take each dose with meals and at bedtime. Each chewable tablet should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. Do not swallow the chewable tablets whole. If you have difficulty chewing the tablets, they can be crushed before taking them. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) 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 drug(s) may interact with Polycarbophil? (Back to top) Polycarbophil can absorb some medications and decrease their effectiveness. It is best not to take polycarbophil within 2 hours of taking other medications. The following medicines in particular may be affected: •Quinolone antibiotics (examples: ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin) •Tetracycline antibiotics Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from receiving Polycarbophil? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •chest pain •difficulty breathing •difficulty swallowing •nausea, vomiting •rectal bleeding Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •bloating or 'gassy' feelings •diarrhea •lower stomach discomfort or cramps What should I watch for while taking Polycarbophil? (Back to top) Do not use polycarbophil for more than one week without advice from your health care professional. It can take up to 3 days to see the full effect of taking polycarbophil. Always take non-chewable tablets or caplets with plenty of water. This can prevent the medicine from swelling in the throat and prevent swallowing, or make you vomit. If you do not have a bowel movement after the use of this or any laxative, or if you notice rectal bleeding after use, contact your health care professional. Contact your health care professional if you notice a sudden change in your bowel habits that persist for over 2 weeks. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Store at room temperature, in a tightly closed container. Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Last Updated:05/08/2006 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.