Bulk laxative efficacy of a psyllium seed hydrocolloid and of a mixture of cellulose and pectin

J Clin Pharmacol. 1979 May-Jun;19(5-6):313-20. doi: 10.1002/j.1552-4604.1979.tb02485.x.

Abstract

The cellulose/pectin combination (C/P) investigated in this study is as efficacious as a psyllium seed product widely used as a bulk laxative. Because of its physical characteristics (whiteness, lack of flavor and odor, lack of gelling upon standing), it is easy to use as a component of baked foods, sauces, drinks, stews, and in other recipes. Given its fecal bulking equivalence to the popular psyllium-based products, C/P offers advantages to the patient who takes a bulking agent regularly because of the wide choice of methods of consumption, ensuring better compliance over long periods of time. This cellulose/pectin combination appears to be a viable alternative to the limited choice presently available to the bulk laxative user and could also be used as a plant fiber supplement whenever this is desirable.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cathartics*
  • Cellulose / pharmacology*
  • Diet
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Feces / analysis
  • Female
  • Gastrointestinal Motility
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pectins / pharmacology*
  • Psyllium*

Substances

  • Cathartics
  • Psyllium
  • Pectins
  • Cellulose