How does Fybogel work?
Fybogel is a type of laxative called a bulk-forming laxative. It makes your poor softer and bigger, so it's easier to pass.
When will I feel better?
It takes 2 to 3 days for Fybogel to work.
What if I do not get better?
Talk to your doctor or a pharmacist if you're still constipated after 3 days. They may be able to suggest a different medicine.
How does Fybogel compare with other laxatives?
Other types of laxatives work in a different way from Fybogel, but are equally good at treating constipation.
Some may work quicker than Fybogel.
Osmotic laxatives (for example, lactulose) draw water from the rest of the body into your bowel to soften poo and make it easier to pass. They take 2 or 3 days to work.
Stimulant laxatives (for example, senna and bisacodyl) speed up your bowel by stimulating nerves that control the muscles lining your gut. They work faster than other laxatives. If you take them at bedtime, they work overnight.
Surface-wetting laxatives (for example, arachis oil and docusate) allow water to get into poo so it's softer and easier to pass.
Can I take Fybogel after an operation?
Yes, you can take Fybogel to relieve constipation after surgery.
Will it affect my contraception?
Fybogel does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill or emergency contraception, unless you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours.
If you have severe diarrhoea, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.
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Can I drive or ride a bike?
Taking Fybogel should not affect your ability to drive or ride a bike.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Fybogel?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking Fybogel.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while taking Fybogel.
It might help to stop eating foods such as pastries, puddings, sweets, cheese and cake for a while, as these foods can make constipation worse.
Can lifestyle changes help constipation?
You may be able to improve your constipation without using laxatives.
Before trying Fybogel, or to stop constipation coming back, it may help to:
- get more fibre into your diet – adults should aim for about 30g of fibre a day. High-fibre foods include fruit, vegetables and cereals. If you're not used to eating high-fibre foods, increase the amount of fibre you eat gradually
- try bulking agents, such as wheat bran, which can help make your poo softer and easier to pass (although this type of fibre can sometimes make bloating worse)
- drink plenty of water to keep poo soft
- exercise – being physically active helps to keep your bowel moving