Benefiber (Wheat dextrin) Sachet and Tablets

Benefiber which contains wheat dextrin is an oral formulation of soluble fiber that is used in adults and children older than 4 years of age for the treatment of constipation and as dietary supplementation. It is usually fortified with different vitamins and mineral supplementation for additional benefits. It may be added to other medicines such as prucalopride (P-pride, Motegrity) for the relief of severe constipation.

Benefiber (Wheat Dextrin) Dose in Adults

Benefiber (Wheat Dextrin) Dose in Adults as a dietary fiber supplementation:

    • Benefiber is administered as 4 grams which is equivalent to 2 teaspoons orally after adding it to 4 to 8 ounces of liquid or soft food thrice daily.

Benefiber (Wheat Dextrin) Dose in Children

Benefiber (Wheat Dextrin) Dose in Children for the treatment of dietary fiber supplementation:

  • Benefiber for toddlers dosage:

    • 2 grams of wheat dextrin which is equivalent to one teaspoon is added to 4 to 8 ounces of liquid or soft food and administered thrice daily
  • Children 12 years of age or older and Adolescents:

    • Use it as in adults.

Use in pregnancy and lactation:

  • It may be used safely in pregnant and lactating women as it does not have any systemic absorption.

Dose in patients with kidney disease:

  • The manufacturer has not recommended any adjustment in patients with kidney disease.

Dose in patients with liver disease:

  • The manufacturer has not recommended any adjustment in patients with liver disease.

Side Effects of Benefiber (Wheat Dextrin):

  • Gastrointestinal:

    • Bloating
    • Flatulence
    • Gastrointestinal distress

Benefiber Warnings and Precautions:

  • Coronary heart disease
    • It should be taken in combination with a low-fat diet when used to lower the risk of developing coronary heart disease.
  • Gastrointestinal Disease:
    • Patients with gastrointestinal problems such as:
      • Esophageal restrictions
      • Ulcers
      • stenosis,
      • Adhesions to the intestinal tract
      • gastrointestinal obstruction,
      • Patients with fecal impaction or
      • Patients with difficulty swallowing and dysphagia.

Monitor:

  • It is usually given to stable patients, and monitoring is not required.
  • However, patients with an underlying gastrointestinal disorder including a recent surgery should be advised of the drug with caution.

How to Administer Benefiber (Wheat Dextrin)?

  • It comes in tablet and powder form, which may be added to hot or cold liquids like coffee, juice, or water.
  • Additionally, it may be added to prepared dishes or soft foods like pudding, yoghurt, and applesauce.
  • It should not be added to carbonated beverages. The tablets should be swallowed with liquid.

Mechanism of Action of Benefiber (Wheat Dextrin):

  • It is a soluble fibre that can be used to treat constipation. 
  • It functions by absorbing water from the gut to create a viscous fluid that speeds up transit and encourages peristalsis.

International Brands of Benefiber (Wheat Dextrin):

 

  • Benefiber Plus B Vits & FA
  • Benefiber Plus Calcium
  • Benefiber Drink Mix
  • Benefiber For Children
  • Benefiber Plus Heart Health
  • Benefiber

Wheat Dextrin Brand Names in Pakistan:

Brands in Pakistan will be updated later

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