Patient was educated on the side effects of using Benefiber as follows:
- Abdominal discomfort
- Benefiber absorbs water and swells in the intestines, giving rise to an unpleasant bloating sensation, abdominal discomfort, and flatulence.
- Dehydration
- Since Benefiber takes large amount of water to be able to exert their effects, caution must be exercised with regards to rehydration.
- Noncompliance with rehydration can lead to episodes of intense dehydration.
- A deliberate effort for rehydration should be made, especially in senior citizens, as they frequently present with diminished sensitivity to thirst and are likely to skip drinking water.
- Choking and difficulty breathing
- Water is needed to swallow Benefiber completely into the stomach.
- Care must be taken to prevent Benefiber to absorb water and swell while it is in the throat, which can result in choking and difficulty breathing.
- Poor absorption of other medications
- Benefiber can reduce the absorption of certain prescription medications. Space Benefiber out by at least 2 hours from other medications.
- Benefiber is a very rich source of soluble fiber that forms a gel and traps sugars, as the gel moves through the intestines. Trapped sugars are slowly released, which slows down their absorption into the blood. This might lower the blood sugars and lead to hypoglycemia.
