Mucilin/Mucilin SF Mechanism of Action

Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Mechanism of Action: Ispaghula husk is capable of absorbing up to 40 times its own weight in water. Isphaghula husk consists of 85% water-soluble fiber; it is partly fermentable and acts by hydration in the bowel. Gut motility and transit rate can be modified by ispaghula husk through mechanical stimulation of the gut wall as a result of the increase in intestinal bulk by water and the decrease in viscosity of the luminal contents. When taken with a sufficient amount of liquid (at least 30 ml per 1 g of herbal substance) ispaghula husk produces an increased volume of intestinal contents due to its highly bulking properties and hence a stretch stimulus, which triggers defecation; at the same time the swollen mass of mucilage forms a lubricating layer, which makes the transit of intestinal contents easier.
Progress of action: ispaghula husk usually acts within 12 to 24 hours after single administration. Sometimes the maximum effect is reached after 2 to 3 days.
Pharmacokinetics: Absorption: The material hydrates and swells to form mucilage because it is only partially solubilized. Polysaccharides, such as those which dietary fibres are made of, must be hydrolysed to monosaccharides before intestinal uptake can occur.
Less than 10% of the mucilage gets hydrolysed in the stomach.
Psyllium (ispaghula husk) is not absorbed systemically.
Elimination: Human intestinal flora in the large intestine degrades the polysaccharides.