Fiber-Lax Oral

In Depth

Generic Name: POLYCARBOPHIL - ORAL
Pronounced: (paw-lee-KARB-uh-fill)

Fiber-Lax Oral Side Effects

Bloating, gas, or stomach cramps may also occur. These effects usually decrease with smaller doses. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This product must be taken with adequate liquids so that it will not swell in the throat, causing choking. Seek immediate medical attention if after taking this product, you have any of the following symptoms of choking:

chest pain
vomiting
difficulty swallowing/breathing

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

rash
itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
severe dizziness
trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Fiber-Lax Oral Precautions

Before taking polycarbophil, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to povidone, mineral oil, or sodium laurel sulfate; or if you have any other allergies.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have:

blocked intestines (e.g., bowel obstruction, fecal impaction)
difficulty swallowing

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

bleeding from the rectum

Some products may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to limit your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), consult your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, especially the choking effect.

This product is not recommended for children under 12 years old unless specifically directed by a doctor.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.