Patient was educated on contraindications for using Metamucil as follows:
- Esophageal strictures
- Metamucil can absorb water and swell, while it is in the throat during swallowing, which can result in choking and difficulty breathing.
- Intestinal strictures
- Metamucil swells in the intestines and can cause severe intestinal blocks in individuals with intestinal strictures or adhesions from previous surgeries.
- So, Metamucil for the most part is contraindicated in individuals with history of intestinal strictures and adhesions.
- Individuals on fluid limitations
- Metamucil is to be taken with a full 8 oz. glass of water.
- So, extra caution must be exercised, while administering Metamucil for patients placed on fluid limitations, such as, individuals with congestive heart failure and renal failure.
- Count this water too towards daily fluid allowance.
- Some forms of Metamucil have added sugar to them. Individuals on calorie limitations must keep a close watch, while reading the label, to account for such hidden calories. This added sugar in these products can lead to poor blood sugar control in diabetic individuals. Choice of sugar free versions of Metamucil are available.
