Drug Class Description
Bulking agents.

Generic Name
Sterculia, frangula

Drug Description
The active ingredients are 62% Sterculia and 8.0% Frangula.

Presentation
Brown granules.

Indications
The treatment of constipation, particularly hypertonic or slow transit constipation, resistant to bulk alone.The initiation and maintenance of bowel action after rectal surgery and after haemorrhoidectomy.

Adult Dosage
Adults (including the elderly): 1 or 2 sachets or 1-2 heaped 5ml spoonfuls, once or twice daily after meals.The granules should be placed on the tongue and, without chewing or crushing, swallowed immediately with plenty of water or a cool drink. Prior to drinking they may also be sprinkled on and taken with soft food such as yoghurt

Child Dosage
Children (6 – 12 years): A reduced amount may be given at the discretion of the physician.

Contra Indications
Intestinal obstruction, faecal impaction and total atony of the colon.Known hypersensitivity to the ingredients

Special Precautions
Caution should be exercised in the use of NORMACOL Plus in cases of ulcerative colitis. Patients should be advised to maintain an adequate fluid intake, to avoid NORMACOL Plus immediately before going to bed or in a recumbent position (especially if they are elderly) and to suspend treatment if bowel movements do not occur within four days.Prolonged and excessive use of stimulant laxatives can cause dependence and loss of normal bowel functionPatients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency should not take this medicine.

Adverse Reactions
Immune system disorders: allergic reactionsGastrointestinal disorders:Intestinal/colonic obstruction or impaction, abdominal crampOesophageal obstruction is possible if the product is not adequately washed down with fluid.Abdominal distension may occur.

Manufacturer
Norgine

Drug Availability
GSL

Updated
02 June 2009