How does Fybogel work?
Fybogel is a type of laxative called a bulk-forming laxative. It helps to bulk up poo with fluid so it's softer and easier to pass.
When will I feel better?
It takes 2 to 3 days for Fybogel to work.
What if I do not get better?
Talk to your doctor if you're still constipated after 3 days. They may be able to suggest a different medicine.
Are there any long-term side effects?
Ideally, you'll only use Fybogel occasionally and for a few days at a time.
Using laxatives like Fybogel for longer can lead to diarrhoea that lasts a long time.
It can also cause an electrolyte imbalance. This is where levels of substances like sodium, potassium and magnesium in your body get too high or too low. A severe electrolyte imbalance can cause serious health problems, such as:
- muscle spasms
- twitching
- you having a seizure or fit
But there are some situations where you may need to take Fybogel for many months – for instance, if you need to increase the fibre in your diet.
Your doctor will advise you exactly how long you need to take Fybogel for and how much to take.
How does Fybogel compare with other laxatives?
There are other types of laxatives. They work in a different way from Fybogel, but are equally good at treating constipation.
Some may work more quickly than Fybogel.
Osmotic laxatives (for example, lactulose) draw water from the rest of the body into your bowel to soften poo and make it easier to pass. They take 2 or 3 days to work.
Stimulant laxatives (for example, senna and bisacodyl) speed up your bowels by stimulating the nerves that control the muscles lining your gut. They work more quickly than other laxatives. If you take them at bedtime, they work overnight.
Surface-wetting laxatives (for example, arachis oil and docusate) allow water to get into poo to soften it and make it easier to pass.
Can I take Fybogel after an operation?
Yes, you can take Fybogel to relieve constipation after surgery.
Will it affect my contraception?
Fybogel does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill or emergency contraception, unless you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours.
If you have severe diarrhoea, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.
Find out more:
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Taking Fybogel should not affect your ability to drive or ride a bike.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Fybogel?
Yes, you can drink alcohol with Fybogel.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while taking Fybogel.
It might help to stop eating foods such as pastries, puddings, sweets, cheese and cake for a while, as these foods can make constipation worse.
Can lifestyle changes help constipation?
It's often possible to relieve constipation without having to use laxatives.
Before trying Fybogel, or to stop constipation coming back, it may help to:
- get more fibre into your diet – aim for about 30g of fibre a day. High-fibre foods include fruit, vegetables and cereals. If you're not used to a high-fibre diet, it may be best to increase the amount of fibre you eat gradually
- add bulking agents, such as wheat bran, to your diet – these will help make your poo softer and easier to pass (although bran and fibre can sometimes make bloating worse)
- drink plenty of water – to keep poo soft
- exercise – keeping your body active will help to keep your gut moving