Questions and Answers
What is the therapeutic class of psyllium?
What is psyllium derived from?
What should psyllium be mixed with before administration?
At least 8 oz of water, fruit juice, or milk.
Psyllium may cause significant cramping compared to other laxatives.
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What is a potential risk of taking psyllium with insufficient water?
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Which of the following interactions is associated with psyllium?
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Psyllium should not be administered to patients with ______ abdominal pain.
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What is the recommended daily fiber supplement dosage of psyllium?
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Psyllium is considered unsafe and should not be used regularly.
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Study Notes
Psyllium Overview
- Commonly known as Metamucil, psyllium is a natural product derived from the seeds of the plantain plant.
- Recognized as a bulk-type laxative, it is classified as an herbal agent.
Actions and Uses
- Psyllium is an insoluble fiber, indigestible and unabsorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
- When mixed with enough water, it swells, increasing fecal mass and promoting smoother stool passage.
- It may take multiple doses over 1 to 3 days to achieve therapeutic effects.
- Regular use (7 g/day) can slightly lower blood cholesterol levels, aiding in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.
Administration Alerts
- Mix psyllium with at least 8 oz of water, juice, or milk; administer immediately for effectiveness.
- Follow each dose with an additional 8 oz of liquid to prevent blockage.
- Close monitoring is advised for older adults to avoid aspiration incidents.
- Classified under pregnancy category C, indicating potential risks for unborn babies.
Adverse Effects
- Generally a safe laxative with minimal adverse effects, causing less cramping than stimulant laxatives.
- If insufficient water is consumed, it can swell in the esophagus, leading to potential obstruction.
Contraindications
- Not suitable for patients exhibiting undiagnosed abdominal pain, intestinal obstruction, or fecal impaction.
Interactions
- Drug interactions: Psyllium may reduce the absorption and effects of medications like warfarin, digoxin, antibiotics, and tricyclic antidepressants.
- Laboratory tests: It may lower serum glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients.
- Potential interactions with herbal or food sources are currently unknown.
- Overdose from psyllium is extremely unlikely, posing minimal risk.
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Description
Test your knowledge on psyllium, its therapeutic and pharmacologic classes, as well as its actions and uses. This quiz covers key concepts related to this bulk-type laxative derived from plantain seeds. Perfect for students in pharmacology or healthcare fields.
