Equalactin

Generic name:polycarbophil [ POL-ee-KAR-boe-fil ]
Brand names: Equalactin, Fiber Lax, FiberCon, Fiberlax, Fibertab, Konsyl Fiber
Drug class:Laxatives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 7, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Equalactin?

Equalactin is a bulk-forming laxative that increases the amount of water in your stools to help make them softer and easier to pass.

Equalactin is used to treat constipation and to help maintain regular bowel movements.

Equalactin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Equalactin if you are allergic to Equalactin or to mineral oil, sodium laurel sulfate, or povidone (such as Betadine).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• irritable bowel syndrome;

• trouble swallowing;

• stomach pain with nausea or vomiting;

• a blockage in your intestines;

• a history of bleeding from your rectum;

• a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts 2 weeks or longer; or

• if you have been constipated for more than 1 week.

Ask your doctor before taking Equalactin if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before taking Equalactin if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Do not give this medicine to a young child without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Equalactin?

Equalactin is usually taken 1 to 4 times per day. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Overuse of a laxative may cause damage to the nerves, muscles, or tissues in your intestines.

Take this medicine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water or other liquid. Then drink one more glass of water.

The chewable tablet form of polycarbophil must be chewed before you swallow it. After chewing and swallowing the tablet, drink a full glass of water.

Taking Equalactin without enough liquid may cause the tablet...