| drug name | Wheat Dextrin (Benefiber) |
| classification | Dietary Fiber Supplement |
| pharmacokinetics | Wheat dextrin is a non-digestible fiber. It passes through the gastrointestinal tract largely unchanged. Specific absorption and metabolism data are not well-defined, but it primarily affects bowel function by increasing stool bulk and altering gut transit time. |
| suggested dosage | | adult | Typically 1-10 grams of wheat dextrin per day or as directed by healthcare professional. Dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and clinical need. | | special consideration 25 year old 70kg male | A general guideline, consult with a healthcare professional for individual dosage recommendation. |
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| indications | | 1 | Constipation relief | | 2 | Management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) | | 3 | Improving bowel regularity | | 4 | Helping with weight management (by promoting satiety). | | 5 | May be helpful in managing blood sugar levels. |
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| safety in pregnancy | Limited data available. Consult with healthcare professional. While considered generally safe, no rigorous studies exist for use during pregnancy. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Limited data available. Consult with healthcare professional. |
| side effects | | 1 | Bloating | | 2 | Flatulence (gas) | | 3 | Abdominal discomfort | | 4 | Nausea (rare) | | 5 | Diarrhea (rare, can be more pronounced with high initial doses) | | 6 | Dehydration (can be worsened by high fiber intake without adequate fluid intake). |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity or allergy to wheat or wheat products | | 2 | Severe bowel obstruction | | 3 | Recent or suspected intestinal surgery | | 4 | Severe dehydration |
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| interactions | Wheat dextrin may interact with certain medications, particularly those affecting absorption and blood sugar levels. It may decrease the absorption of some medications. Always inform your healthcare professional about all medications and supplements you are taking. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Do not exceed recommended dosage without consulting a healthcare professional. | | 2 | Consume sufficient fluids to prevent dehydration, especially when starting or increasing the dose. | | 3 | Monitor for any unusual symptoms or persistent discomfort. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if adverse effects worsen. | | 4 | If you have any underlying health conditions, consult a doctor before starting this supplement. | | 5 | Wheat dextrin is not a substitute for appropriate diet and exercise in managing weight. |
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| additional information | | 1 | Wheat dextrin is a soluble fiber | | 2 | The body cannot digest wheat dextrin, so it passes through the digestive system relatively quickly. |
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| patient specific notes | Individualized dosage, safety considerations, and potential interactions depend on the patient's overall health and any existing conditions. It's strongly recommended to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a gastroenterologist or nutritionist, before initiating or modifying wheat dextrin intake. |
