Celevac
How does it work?
Methylcellulose is a type of medicine called a bulking agent. When taken by mouth, it is not absorbed into the bloodstream, but remains in the intestines where it absorbs water. This causes it to swell up and form a gel. This feature of methylcellulose gives it several uses.It's main use is in relieving constipation. When you are constipated, the faeces become abnormally dry and hard and are painful and difficult to expell. Methylcellulose absorbs water so it helps to soften the faeces, and as it swells up in the intestines it increases the volume of the intestinal contents. This stimulates the muscular movement of the gut, which helps to move the stools through the intestines. The full laxative effect may take a few days to develop.Since methylcellulose absorbs water in the gut, it can also be used to treat simple diarrhoea. It absorbs excess water, which decreases the frequency and increases the firmness of watery stools. This is of use in people with ulcerative colitis or diverticular disease.With it's ability to treat constipation and diarrhoea, methylcellulose is also used to control the consistency of faeces in people with a colostomy or ileostomy.Methylcellulose is also used to reduce appetite in obese people who are trying to lose weight. It is taken half an hour before each meal and when hunger pangs are severe. As it swells in the gut it gives a feeling of fullness that helps reduce food intake.