| Description: |
Psyllium is derived from the seeds of the black psyllium (Plantago psyllium) and blond psyllium (Plantago ovata) plants. It is a treatment for constipation, a condition to which some people with MS may be prone. More than four million Americans use some form of psyllium on a daily basis. |
| Rationale: |
Psyllium is a bulk-producing laxative, which means that it increases in bulk or size on exposure to water. |
| Evaluation: |
Clinical studies indicate that psyllium is an effective laxative. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved it for use as a laxative. |
| Risks: |
Psyllium is generally safe. However, if fluid intake is inadequate, psyllium may cause obstruction of the throat or intestine. Psyllium may decrease or delay the absorption of a variety of medications, including carbamazepine (Tegretol®) and warfarin (Coumadin®). To avoid this effect, oral medications should be taken one hour before or four hours after psyllium. Psyllium seeds should not be crushed because this may release chemicals that are toxic to the kidneys. |
| Committee opinion: |
In the opinion of the Committee, psyllium is a well tolerated and low-cost herbal therapy that effectively treats constipation. Adequate fluid intake is essential to avoid obstruction of the throat or intestine. |
