polycarbophil

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

The mechanism of action of polycarbophil is to increase stool volume and promote bowel regularity. It works by absorbing water in the gut, thereby increasing the bulk and weight of the stool. It stimulates peristalsis and promotes the passage of stool through the intestines. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency Not Defined: 

Flatulence 

Stomach cramps 

Vomiting 

Abdominal fullness 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

It is essential to follow the dosage and administration instructions for the medication carefully.

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

polycarbophil should not be used in people hypersensitive to the drug itself. 

It is also contraindicated in people with appendicitis, fecal impaction, dysphagia, and bowel obstruction. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

The drug is safe during pregnancy. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

The drug is not absorbed in the systemic circulation. Hence is safe during pregnancy.  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show risk to the fetus in the first/later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.        
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology 

polycarbophil is not absorbed or metabolized by the body and is excreted unchanged in the feces. It is not known to interact with medications or has systemic side effects. The most common side effects are bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. It is considered safe for long-term use but should be used cautiously in individuals with bowel obstruction or difficulty swallowing. It is available over the counter and by prescription. Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamic effects of polycarbophil are to relieve constipation and irregular bowel movements and improve bowel motility and regularity.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

polycarbophil is a water-soluble, non-fermentable, and non-absorbable synthetic polymer used as a bulk-forming laxative. It absorbs water in the gastrointestinal tract, increases stool volume, and promotes bowel movements.  

Absorption 

There is minimal systemic absorption.  

Distribution 

When taken orally, polycarbophil is not absorbed or metabolized. It instead passes through the gastrointestinal tract unchanged. The onset of action is usually within 12-72 hours after oral administration. The drug is eliminated in the feces.  

Metabolism 

It is a water-soluble, non-fermentable, and non-absorbable synthetic polymer that absorbs water in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby increasing the volume of the stool and promoting bowel movements. It is not absorbed or metabolized by the body. It instead passes through the GIT unchanged and is eliminated in the feces. 

Elimination and excretion 

polycarbophil is excreted in feces.

Adminstartion

Administration: 

polycarbophil is usually taken orally and can be taken with or without food. It is essential to follow the dosage instructions a healthcare professional provides or on the product label. Drinking plenty of water while taking polycarbophil is also recommended to help prevent dehydration and help the medication work effectively. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: polycarbophil 

Pronounced: poly-kaar-bo-phil 

Why do we use polycarbophil? 

polycarbophil is a bulk-producing laxative. It is used to relieve constipation.