Fybogel comes as sachets of plain, orange- or lemon-flavoured granules.
Dosage and how to take Fybogel
Dosage
The usual dose of Fybogel for constipation is:
- for adults and children aged 12 years and over – 1 sachet of granules twice a day
- for children aged 6 to 11 years – half to 1 level (5ml) teaspoonful of granules twice a day
- for children aged 5 years or under – half to 1 level (5ml) teaspoonful of granules twice a day, only if recommended by a doctor
How to take Fybogel
It's best to take Fybogel after a meal or snack and at least 30 minutes before or after you take any other medicine.
To make up the medicine, open the sachet and empty the amount of granules you need into a glass. Add at least 150ml of cold water to the glass.
Stir well until all the granules have dissolved and the Fybogel solution is clear or slightly hazy, then drink it immediately.
Try not to breathe in the powder when you make up the Fybogel drink, because there's a small chance this could trigger a mild allergic reaction.
Have your evening drink of Fybogel at least an hour before going to bed. Do not drink Fybogel just before you go to sleep because this can make it harder for your bowel to move the poo along.
It's important to drink extra fluid if you're taking Fybogel. Adults should try to drink more than 2 litres, or around 8 glasses, of fluid each day. If you do not drink enough fluid while taking Fybogel, your constipation may get worse.
How long to take it for
Talk to a doctor if your constipation has not improved or it gets worse after 3 days or taking Fybogel.
For more serious constipation, or if you're taking Fybogel to increase the fibre in your diet, your doctor may recommend that you take it for many months.
If you forget to take it
If you forget a dose of Fybogel, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time.
Never take 2 doses at the same time. Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.
If you often forget doses, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine
If you take too much
Taking more than the usual dose of Fybogel may cause wind (farting) and tummy pain. If you take an extra dose, drink plenty of water.
If you have pain or symptoms that worry you, speak to your doctor or call NHS 111 for advice.