Like all medicines, Fybogel may cause side effects in some people, but many people have no side effects or only minor ones.
Common side effects
The most common side effects of Fybogel, which happen in more than 1 in 100 people, are wind and bloating.
This sometimes happens because of the sudden increase of fibre in your diet.
It should get better after a few days. If the side effects carry on, or if you're worried, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Mild allergic reaction
It's possible to have a mild allergic reaction to Fybogel such as itchy eyes, nose or skin.
You're more likely to have a mild allergic reaction if you have had an allergic reaction before and if you're exposed to the powder regularly (for example, if you're a carer).
If you think you're having a mild allergic reaction to Fybogel, stop taking it and ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.
Serious side effects
In rare cases, it's possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to Fybogel.
Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:
- your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
- you're breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you're choking or gasping for air)
- your throat feels tight or you're struggling to swallow
- your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
- you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
- someone faints and cannot be woken up
- a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)
You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.
These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
Long-term side effects
Most people will only need to take Fybogel for a few days at a time. But if you need to take it for many months, for example to increase the fibre in your diet, it can 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 spasm and twitching, and or even cause a seizure or fit.
Other side effects
These are not all the side effects of Fybogel. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicines packet.
You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.