Allergic reactions to psyllium are rare but dangerous. They mostly occur in nurses or other individuals who deal with psyllium professionally. Bronchospasms, rhinitis and, very rarely, anaphylactic reactions may occur.

If psyllium is taken with too little fluid an acute obstruction of the esophagus or the intestine could occur.

Psyllium frequently causes harmless gastrointestinal pain, particularly flatulence, distension and abdominal pain.

Many psyllium preparations contain glucose, which is a fact that has to be considered in the treatment of diabetic or obese subjects.

Psyllium (Ispaghula): Interactions

Psyllium may impair the absorption of other drugs. This must be kept in mind, especially with slow release preparations. The influence on the absorption of digoxin seems to be clinically irrelevant.

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