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Overview: Citrucel (methylcellulose) is a bulk-forming laxative that helps relieve occasional constipation. It is a type of soluble fiber that softens stool to make it easier to pass. Citrucel generally leads to a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours. The most common side effects are stomach discomfort and gas. Do not use Citrucel for more than one week unless your health care provider tells you to.

Uses

What is Citrucel used for?

Citrucel (methylcellulose) is commonly used to treat occasional constipation.

Citrucel may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does Citrucel work (mechanism of action)?

Citrucel contains methylcellulose, which is a type of fiber. It makes your stool (poop) bulkier and softer and helps pull water into your intestines. This helps stool pass more easily.

How is Citrucel supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Citrucel 

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 500 mg oral caplets
  • 2 g/scoop powder for oral solution

How should I store Citrucel?

Citrucel should be stored at room temperature, below 77 F (25 C). Store in a cool, dry place. Protect from humidity and keep tightly closed.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Citrucel?

The most common side effects of Citrucel are gas and stomach discomfort or cramping. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

There may be other side effects of Citrucel that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Citrucel?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Citrucel are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Choking. Taking Citrucel without enough fluid may cause it to swell up and block your throat or food pipe. This could cause choking. Get medical help right away if you have chest pain, vomiting, or trouble swallowing or breathing after taking Citrucel.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Citrucel may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking Citrucel and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Citrucel?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take Citrucel.

  • Citrucel
  • Methylcellulose
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product 

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Citrucel.

Trouble Swallowing. Do not take Citrucel if you have trouble swallowing or if you have narrowing of your esophagus. Taking this product without enough fluid may cause it to swell and make it harder to swallow. 

Symptoms of a Serious Gastrointestinal (GI) Problem. Citrucel should not be used without talking with your health care provider first if you have symptoms of a serious gastrointestinal problem. This can include symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting, blood in your stool, or a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for 2 weeks or longer. 

What should I know about Citrucel before using it?

Keep Citrucel out of the reach of children.

You will need to take Citrucel with plenty of fluids. See the Interactions section for more details.

Stop taking Citrucel and talk with your health care provider if your constipation lasts more than 7 days or you have rectal bleeding. These could be signs of a serious gastrointestinal (GI) problem.

Citrucel Sugar Free contains phenylalanine. Do not use this product if you have phenylketonuria.

What should I tell my health care provider before using Citrucel?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if Citrucel is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

  • Rectal bleeding
  • Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
  • Sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for 2 weeks or longer
  • Constipation for more than a week

Pregnancy. Tell your health care provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should take Citrucel while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should take Citrucel while breastfeeding.

How can I get more information about Citrucel?

For more information about Citrucel, you can visit the manufacturer’s website at www.citrucel.com or call them at 800-897-6081.

Interactions

Does Citrucel interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between Citrucel and foods or drinks.

Take Citrucel oral caplets with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of water or another fluid. Taking it without enough liquid may cause choking.

Mix Citrucel powder with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of cold water or another fluid. Stir the mixture briskly and drink it promptly. It is helpful to drink another glass of water.

There are no known interactions between Citrucel and alcohol. It is possible that alcohol may worsen constipation. 

Does Citrucel interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Citrucel may affect the absorption of some other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Citrucel?

If you or someone else has taken too much Citrucel, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Citrucel?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.