Bulk-producing Agents
- Site of action: small and large intestine
- Onset of action: 12–72 hours
- Examples: Bran (insoluble fibre), Gamkaraya, Sterculia, psyllium husk (Metamucil (soluble fibre)), methylcellulose (Citrucel), polycarbophil, dietary fibre, apples (soluble fibre), broccoli, prunes (soluble fibre).
A bulk-forming agent is a substance, such as fiber in food, that adds bulk and water to stools so that they can pass more easily through the intestines (lower part of the digestive tract).
Also known as bulking agents or roughage, these include insoluble dietary fibre. Bulk-producing agents cause the stool to be bulkier and to retain more water, as well as forming an emollient gel, making it easier for peristaltic action to move it along. They should be taken with plenty of water. Bulk-producing agents have the gentlest of effects among laxatives and can be taken just for maintaining regular bowel movements.
Read more about this topic: Laxative
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