The active ingredient, psyllium husk, is a soluble viscous fibre that absorbs and holds moisture. This causes the psyllium to swell, supplying the necessary bulk to help form an easily eliminated stool. Metamucil will not cause immediate evacuation but generally produces an effect in 12 to 72 hours.

What time of day is best for taking Metamucil?

A: Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil fiber as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 8 ounces of water or liquid per serving) is consumed. We recommend taking Metamucil between one and three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil.

Does Metamucil clean out your intestines?

The soluble viscous gelling fibre from psyllium husk maintains its gelled nature through the digestive tract. In the large intestine this results in its stool normalizing benefit. By absorbing and retaining water the psyllium softens the stool to relieve constipation.