Dosing and uses of Sterculia
Adult dosage forms and strengths
granules
- 62% sterculia gum
Constipation
1-2 sachets PO qD-BID; place granules on tongue & swallow with 250 mL of water
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
granules
- 62% sterculia gum
Constipation
>12 years old: same as adult dose
<12 years old: not established
Sterculia adverse (side) effects
Frequency not defined
Constipation
Flatulence
Abdominal cramping
Impaction
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity, obstruction, fecal impaction, symptoms of appendicitis or acute surgical abdomen, GI ulceration, dysphagia, rectal bleeding
Cautions
Ingest adequate quantities of water with the preparation
Not recommended during abd pain, N/V, fever
Separate by all other medications by 2 hr, since laxatives may decr absorption
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: N/A
Lactation: no data available; not absorbed, therefore unlikely to pose risk in breast-feeding
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of Sterculia
Onset: 12-72 hr
Metabolism: not absorbed from GI tract
Excretion: fecaL
Mechanism of action
Sterculia urens gum; bulk-producing laxative