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 medicine can also add mass or bulk on feces.
Pectin trademark:Arcapec, Bio Plus, Entrostop, Koltin, Lifiber, Nature's Plus Acidophilus with Pectin
What is Pectin
| group | Free medicine |
| Category | Supplements that can help lower cholesterol or antidiarrhea |
| Benefit | Helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL), high triglycerides, and treat diarrhea |
| Used by | Mature |
| Pectin for pregnant and lactating women | Category N: Not categorized. Pectin is believed to be safe for pregnant and lactating women if used according to the doctor's recommendations and the rules listed on the packaging. |
| Drug form | Capsules, tablets, powders and syrups |
Precautions Before Taking Pectin
Although pectin is sold over the counter, there are a few things you need to consider 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 first 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
The dose of pectin 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 its treatment goals:
Purpose: Lowering high cholesterol levels
- Mature:15 grams per day
Purpose: 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:
- Mature:15–45 ml, taken after every bowel movement, with a maximum treatment duration of 2 days.
- Children aged 6–12 years: 10-20 ml, taken after every bowel movement, with a maximum treatment duration of 2 days.
How to Consume Pectin Correctly
Use pectin as recommended by the doctor and don't forget to read the description on the drug packaging. Do not increase or decrease the dose, and do not use the drug more than the recommended timeframe.
Pectin capsules or tablets can be taken before or after meals. Use water to swallow the pectin capsules or tablets. Do not split, chew, or crush the medicine. Try to take the drug 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 smooth 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, take it immediately if the next schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
Store pectin at room temperature and in a closed container to avoid direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Pectin Interactions with Other Drugs
There are several drug interactions that can occur if pectin is used together with other drugs, namely decreasing 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.
Pectin Side Effects and Dangers
Pectin rarely causes side effects if consumed in accordance with the instructions for use. However, in some people side effects can occur, such as:
- stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Bloated
- loose stools
Check with 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.
