V-Lax

 
Generic Name: psyllium

Brands: Alramucil, Cilium, Fiber Eze, Fiberall, Genfiber, Hydrocil, Konsyl, Konsyl for Kids, Konsyl-D, Konsyl-Orange, Maalox Daily Fiber Therapy, Metamucil, Modane Bulk, Perdiem Fiber, Reguloid, Serutan, Syllact, V-Lax

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What is the most important information I should know about V-Lax?

· Do not use V-Lax without first talking to your doctor if you have stomach (abdominal) pain, nausea, or vomiting, rectal bleeding, or difficulty in swallowing.

· Take V-Lax with a full glass (at least 8 ounces) of cool water or another liquid. Taking V-Lax without enough liquid may cause it to swell in the throat and cause choking.

· If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing or breathing after taking V-Lax, seek immediate medical attention.

 

What is V-Lax?

· V-Lax is a bulk-forming laxative. It absorbs liquid in the intestines and makes a bulky, softer stool which is easier to pass.

· V-Lax is used to treat constipation. V-Lax may also be used to treat diarrhea and to lower cholesterol when prescribed by a doctor.

· V-Lax may also have uses other than those listed in this product guide.

 

Who should not take V-Lax?

· Do not take V-Lax without first talking to your doctor if you have     ·stomach (abdominal) pain, nausea, or vomiting, or rectal bleeding;     ·difficulty in swallowing; or     ·intestinal obstruction or fecal impaction.

· You may not be able to take V-Lax or you may require special monitoring while taking V-Lax if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· V-Lax is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take V-Lax without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is not known whether V-Lax passes into breast milk. Do not take V-Lax without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I take V-Lax?

· Take V-Lax exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take V-Lax with a full glass (at least 8 ounces) of cool water or another liquid. Taking V-Lax without enough liquid may cause it to swell in the throat and cause choking.

· Avoid breathing in the dust from V-Lax powder when mixing. The dust can cause an allergic reaction when accidently inhaled.

· Chew the wafers thoroughly before swallowing.

· If you are taking another medicine by mouth, take V-Lax at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after the prescribed medicine, unless otherwise directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

· V-Lax can be taken 1 to 3 times per day. It may require continued use for 2 to 3 days to provide optimal benefit. If V-Lax has produced no effect within one week or if rectal bleeding occurs, stop taking V-Lax and see your doctor.

· If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing or breathing after taking V-Lax, seek immediate medical attention.

· Store V-Lax at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. It is not necessary to take a double dose.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention.

· Symptoms of a V-Lax overdose are not known but might include nausea, vomiting or stomach pain.

 

What should I avoid while taking V-Lax?

· Avoid breathing in the dust from V-Lax powder when mixing. The dust can cause an allergic reaction when accidently inhaled.

 

What are the possible side effects of V-Lax?

· If you experience any of the following uncommon but serious side effects, stop taking V-Lax and seek medical treatment or call your doctor immediately:     ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);     ·chest pain;     ·difficulty in swallowing;     ·rectal bleeding; or     ·severe abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting.

· Other, less serious side effects, other than those listed here, may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect V-Lax?

· V-Lax can interact with many medications. Before taking V-Lax, tell your doctor if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines. You may not be able to take V-Lax, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any other medicines.

· If you are taking another medicine by mouth, take V-Lax at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after the prescribed medicine, unless otherwise directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has more information about V-Lax written for health professionals that you may read.