Pectin - Benefits, dosage and side effects

Pectin or pectin is a fiber supplement that is used to help lower high cholesterol. In addition, pectin combined with kaolin can also be used to treat diarrhea

Pectin is a natural fiber that can be found in fruits, such as apples, oranges, lemons, and limes. Pectin works by binding fatty substances in the digestive tract and throwing them into the stool. This drug can also add mass or bulk to the stool.

Pectin trademarks: Arcapec, Bio Plus, Entrostop, Koltin, Lifiber, Nature's Plus Acidophilus with Pectin

What Is Pectin

Class	OTC drugs
Categories	Supplements that can help lower cholesterol or antidiarrhea
Benefits	Helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), high triglycerides, and treat diarrhea
Used by	Adult
Pectin for pregnant and lactating women	Category N: Not categorized yet. Pectin is believed to be safe for pregnant and lactating women if used in accordance with the doctor's recommendations and the rules listed on the packaging.
Medicine form	Capsules, tablets, powders and syrups

Warning Before Consuming Pectin

Although pectin is sold over-the-counter, there are a few things you need to pay attention to before consuming pectin:

• Do not take pectin if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
• Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
• Consult your doctor before using pectin if you have cancer.
• Tell your doctor if you have intestinal obstruction or any disease of the digestive tract.
• See your doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction or overdose after taking pectin.

Dosage and Instructions for Use of Pectin

Pectin dosage is determined based on the age, condition of the patient, and the response of the patient's body to the drug. In general, the following are the dosages of pectin based on the purpose of treatment:

Goal: Lowering high cholesterol levels

• Adult: 15 grams per day

Goal: Overcoming diarrhea

Usually pectin will be combined with kaolin to relieve diarrhea. For products containing 1 gram of kaolin and 50 mg of pectin in 5 ml, the dosage is as follows:

• Adults:15–45 ml, taken after every bowel movement, with a maximum duration of treatment of 2 days.
• Children aged 6–12 years: 10-20 ml, consumed after every bowel movement, with a maximum duration of treatment of 2 days.

How to Consume Pectin Correctly

Use pectin according to the doctor's advice and don't forget to read the information on the drug packaging. Do not increase or decrease the dose, and do not use the drug for more than the recommended time.

Pectin capsules or tablets can be taken before or after meals. Use plain water to swallow the pectin capsules or tablets. Do not split, chew, or crush the medicine. Try to take the medicine at the same time every day for maximum treatment.

For powdered pectin, dissolve 1 tablespoon of pectin in water or fruit juice according to the dosage recommended on the label. Stir or shake the solution until evenly distributed before drinking.

Pectin in syrup form needs to be shaken before consumption. Use the measuring spoon provided on the package for the right dose.

If you forget to take pectin, consume it immediately if the next schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.

Store pectin at room temperature and in a closed container to avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

Pectin Interaction with Other Drugs

There are several drug interactions that can occur if pectin is used together with other drugs, namely decreasing the levels and effectiveness of lovastatin, beta carotene, digoxin, and tetracycline antibiotics, such as minocycline.

To prevent interaction effects, always tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.

Side Effects and Dangers of Pectin

Pectin rarely causes side effects if consumed according to the instructions for use. However, in some people side effects can occur, such as:

• stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• stomach bloating
• Diarrhea

Consult your doctor if you experience any of the side effects mentioned above. Immediately see a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction after consuming pectin.