Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Benefiber as follows: Benefiber absorbs water and swells, taking lot of space in the intestines. If the space in the intestines is compromised in the first place, such as, in individuals with intestinal strictures or adhesions from previous surgeries, the swollen Benefiber can cause severe intestinal blocks, necessitating an emergency. So, Benefiber for the most part is contraindicated in such individuals. Let your doctor know [...]

Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Benefiber as follows: Benefiber absorbs water and swell in the intestines, giving rise to an unpleasant bloating sensation, abdominal discomfort, and flatulence. If these unpleasant symptoms are too bothersome, change in plan could be made by trying other laxatives. Benefiber needs large amount of water to be able to form bulk, which stimulates the bowels to move. So, these laxatives are to be taken with [...]

Patient was educated on contraindications for using Benefiber as follows: Esophageal strictures Benefiber can absorb water and swell, while it is in the throat during swallowing, which can result in choking and difficulty breathing. Intestinal strictures Benefiber swells in the intestines and can cause severe intestinal blocks in individuals with intestinal strictures or adhesions from previous surgeries. So, Benefiber for the most part is contraindicated in individuals with history of intestinal strictures and adhesions. Individuals [...]

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 [...]

Patient was educated on how to take Benefiber as follows: Take Benefiber by mixing 2 teaspoons of the powder with 8 oz. of water or coffee. This can as well be mixed into soft foods, such as, apple sauce. Take it at the same time every day, to avoid forgetting the medication. Maintain strict compliance with intake of Benefiber as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication. Do [...]