Fiber-Lax Tablets

GENERIC NAME: POLYCARBOPHIL CALCIUM (pol-i-KAR-boe-fil KAL-see-um)

COMMON USES: This medicine is a bulk forming laxative used to treat constipation. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICINE: Use this medicine exactly as directed on the package, unless instructed differently by your doctor. FOLLOW EACH DOSE with 8 ounces of liquid. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

CAUTIONS: If your symptoms do not improve within 1 week or if they become worse, check with your doctor. DO NOT TAKE additional laxatives or stool softeners with this medicine unless directed by your doctor. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE if you experience stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or rectal bleeding, except under the direction of your doctor. IF YOU NOTICE A SUDDEN CHANGE IN BOWEL HABITS which lasts for 2 weeks or more, do not continue using this medicine. Instead, check with your doctor.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS: A SIDE EFFECT, that may go away during treatment, is abdominal fullness. If it continues or is bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience vomiting or difficulty swallowing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICINE: Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. USE OF THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have appendicitis or a history of bowel obstruction. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using this medicine.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children.

The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.