Ispaghula

Ispaghula Pharmacology and Popular Brands

Ispaghula is a laxative. The laxative drugs primarily aid in increasing the water content in the feces. The action can be achieved by several different mechanisms that form the basis of different types of drugs used for laxative action.

The effect is generally achieved by one or more than one of the following mechanisms.

  • An osmotic action that causes water and electrolytes accumulation, in the intestinal lumen. This increases the volume of fecal content and makes it easier to excrete.
  • Action on mucosa epithelia, decreasing the overall absorption of water and electrolytes. The intestinal transit is enhanced indirectly by the liquid bulk. 
  • Cause an increase in the propulsive activity as a primary action that allows less time for absorption of water and salt as a secondary effect.

Laxatives thus modify the fluid dynamic and mucosal epithelia causing fluid accumulation in the lumen by regulating intracellular responses and physiological processes. Let us understand the drug profile of Ispaghula.

Ispaghula: Drug Profile

ParametersDetails
Category of DrugIspaghula is used as a Laxatives drug.
Ispaghula or Plantago ovata is known by many common names including desert Indian wheat, blond psyllium, blond plantain, and isabgol. It is a medicinal plant native to Western and Southern Asia.
Mechanism of ActionIspaghula promotes peristalsis by absorbing water in the GI tract. It then helps to form a mucilaginous mass which increases the volume of feces.
Indications Ispaghula is used for (1)
1. Constipation
2. Irritable colon syndrome
Well Known
Pharmaceutical Brands
Isabgol- Baidyanath
Fibopeg- Lupin Limited
Laxovel Sf- Eris Lifesciences
Psylax- Inga
Sat Isabgol- Dabur India
Lactifiber- Sun
Sunpharma Lactifiber Powder 180gm: Amazon.in: Health & Personal Care
Available dosage formsGRANULES(flavored and sweetened)
Ispaghula and Its Uses
DoseAdult- 6 teaspoonful of water or milk at night before bedtime.
Child- 1-3 teaspoonful in water or milk before bedtime.
Pharmacology (2)Ispaghula has a gut-stimulatory effect, mediated partially by muscarinic and 5-HT(4) receptor activation, which may complement the laxative effect of its fiber content, and a gut-inhibitory activity possibly mediated by blockade of Ca(2+) channels and activation of NO-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathways
Contraindications 1. Intestinal obstruction
2. Colonic atony
3. Difficulty in swallowing
Precautions1. Salt restriction
2. Interactions
Adverse Effects 1. Abdominal discomfort
2. Flatulence
3. Gastrointestinal obstruction
Pregnancy Category 

Read about:

1 thought on “Ispaghula Pharmacology and Popular Brands”

  1. Pingback: Diarrhea: how to treat diarrhea and antidiarrheals - PharmaCampus

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top