Overview
Fybogel contains the active substance Ispaghula Husk. It is an easy and convenient way to increase the fibre in your diet helping your digestive system work more efficiently and gently relieving constipation the natural way. As it works naturally with your body, it takes care of constipation without undue straining, discomfort or unnatural urgency, helping to restore and maintain regularity.
Fybogel can be used whenever increased fibre is needed in your diet to relieve constipation; including constipation during pregnancy. It can also be used to help maintain normal bowel function if you suffer from haemorrhoids (piles).
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? We’re here to help.
Can I take Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets if I am pregnant or breast-feeding?
Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets may be used during pregnancy and if you are breast-feeding.
What if I take more Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets than I should?
You should not take more Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets than you should. However, if you do take more than directed, drink plenty of water.
What if I forget to take Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets?
If you forget to take Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets and a dose is missed, do not take a double dose; just carry on with the next recommended dose.
Is Fybogel a laxative or stool softener?
Fybogel is a bulk-forming laxative. It contains soluble fibre (ispaghula husk), which absorbs water in the gut to increase stool bulk. This helps regulate bowel movements naturally. It is not a stimulant laxative and does not act as a stool softener in the same way as medicines like docusate.
Is Fybogel good for diverticulitis?
Fybogel may help people with diverticular disease (the long-term condition, not an acute flare-up) by increasing fibre intake and maintaining regular bowel movements. However, it should not be used during acute diverticulitis attacks when the bowel is inflamed. You should always follow your doctor’s advice if you have diverticular disease.
What is the difference between Fybogel and Fybogel Hi-Fibre Orange?
Both products contain ispaghula husk as the active ingredient. The difference is mainly in the flavouring and sweeteners used. Fybogel Hi-Fibre Orange is formulated with added sweeteners and flavour to make it taste more palatable, but the laxative effect is the same.
Does Fybogel help loose bowels?
Yes. Because ispaghula husk absorbs excess fluid in the intestines, it can help firm up loose stools as well as soften hard stools. This makes it useful in both constipation and mild diarrhoea.
Does Fybogel make you poop more?
Fybogel doesn’t force the bowel to move, but it helps regulate stool consistency and stimulate natural movement. This may mean more regular and predictable bowel movements, but it does not usually cause excessive or urgent trips to the toilet.
Does Fybogel speed up digestion?
Not exactly. Fybogel works by bulking and softening stools, which helps the bowel move more efficiently. It does not directly speed up digestion of food, but it may improve overall bowel regularity.
Is it better to take Fybogel in the morning or evening?
You can take Fybogel at any time of day, but many people prefer taking it after meals. It should not be taken immediately before bedtime, as lying down straight after can increase the risk of choking or blockage.
Which is more effective, Fybogel or Laxido?
Fybogel (ispaghula husk) and Laxido (macrogol) are both laxatives but work differently. Fybogel is fibre-based and works gradually, while Laxido is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the bowel to soften stools more strongly. Which is more effective depends on the type and severity of constipation. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise which is most suitable for you.
What is better, lactulose or Fybogel?
Lactulose is an osmotic laxative that softens stools by drawing water into the bowel. Fybogel is a bulk-forming fibre laxative that regulates stool consistency. Both are effective, but Fybogel may be gentler and more natural for long-term use, while lactulose may be better if stools are very hard. Suitability depends on your individual situation.
Is Fybogel safe for kidneys?
Yes, Fybogel is generally considered safe for people with kidney conditions, as it is not absorbed into the bloodstream and works locally in the gut. However, if you are on a fluid restriction or have been told to avoid high-fibre supplements, consult your doctor before use.
What not to take with Fybogel?
Fybogel may reduce absorption of other medicines if taken at the same time. It should be taken at least 30 minutes before or after other medicines. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you take medicines for the thyroid, heart, diabetes, or epilepsy.
Will Fybogel settle IBS?
Fybogel can help manage some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), particularly constipation or alternating bowel habits, by regulating stool consistency. However, not everyone with IBS benefits from extra fibre, and in some cases it may worsen bloating or gas. It’s best to introduce fibre gradually and discuss with your doctor.
Can you take omeprazole and Fybogel?
Yes, Fybogel can usually be taken with omeprazole. To avoid reduced absorption of your medication, make sure to take Fybogel at least 30 minutes before or after your omeprazole dose.
How do I store Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets?
Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets should be stored below 30°C in a dry place. Do not use after the expiry date which is stated on the carton.
How do I dispose of Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets?
If you have any unwanted or expired medication, do not dispose of it via wastewater or household waste. Instead, speak to your pharmacist about the best way to dispose of it. These measures help protect the environment.
Can I buy Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets online?
Yes! You can buy this medication from trusted online doctor and pharmacy e-Surgery and e-Pharmacy. We are regulated by the GPhC, MHRA and CQC to provide you with a simple and legal way for you to order your medication online.
To ensure that any medication you buy online is genuine and the pharmacy is operating legally, check that the green GPhC logo is at the bottom of each page or check the pharmacy’s status on the GPhC website.
Where can I find additional information about Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets?
If you require any additional information about Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets, there are plenty of reputable sources available, including the BNF.
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Directions
In order to take this medicine, fill a glass with approximately 150ml of cold water, pour in the required amount, and then stir well and drink straight away. This should preferably be done after meals.
This medication should be taken at least 30 minutes before or after taking any other medicines and should not be taken immediately before going to sleep.
Side Effects
Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
Due to the increased fibre intake of your diet, you may experience wind (flatulence) or bloating during the first few days of taking this product, which should lessen as you continue to take it. If you have any other symptoms after taking this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet.
How it works
Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) is a bulk-forming laxative containing soluble fibre from psyllium seeds. When mixed with water, the husk absorbs liquid and swells to form a gel-like mass that increases stool bulk and water content. This stimulates natural peristalsis (intestinal contractions) and promotes regular bowel movements.
The increased fibre also helps normalize stool consistency – softening hard stools while firming loose ones. Effects typically occur within 12-24 hours but may take 2-3 days for full benefit. It’s important to drink plenty of water to prevent intestinal blockage.
Delivery
We use Royal Mail for deliveries, with the delivery choices including Royal Mail Tracked 48, Royal Mail Tracked 24, Royal Mail Special Delivery by 1pm.
Your Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets will arrive in discreet and fully recyclable packaging to the address specified.
Ingredients
Each single dose sachet contains 3.5g Ispaghula Husk. Other ingredients are potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, riboflavin sodium phosphate, beta-carotene, aspartame (E951), orange flavour, saccharin sodium, polysorbate 80 and silica colloidal anhydrous.
Warnings
You should not take Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) Sachets if any of the following apply to you:
- you are allergic to ispaghula husk or any of the other ingredients.
- you have a sudden change in bowel habit that has persisted for more than two weeks.
- you are suffering from a blockage of the bowel (intestinal obstruction, faecal impaction).
- if you have a weakness of the bowel wall (colonic atony).
- the speed in which material moves through your gut has always been slow (naturally occurring reduced gut mobility).
- you have difficulty in swallowing or any throat problems.