Is Metamucil related to the burning? Should I stop taking Metamucil? If so, what are the alternatives?

Question

I have had heartburn daily for 5 days now. I also take Metamucil on a regular basis for my digestive health (to help me go to the bathroom) and I read that one of the side effects could be heartburn. This is the first time this has happened to me on a recurring basis. And this is also the first time I started taking Metamucil, I have been taking it regularly for over a month now. My eating habits have not changed except that I drink more coffee than before.

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Hello, ma'am, It is possible that Metamucil causes this kind of symptom but it is often due to several factors, notably the consumption of irritating foods (such as coffee, alcohol, fatty or spicy foods or acidic foods such as certain fruits and vegetables, larger meals, etc.), fatigue, stress and others. I invite you to keep a diary where you will write down what you consume as well as the quantities and your state of mind, then in the second column the occurrence and the extent of your symptoms. This may help identify possible causes. Your pharmacist will be able to provide you with some options to relieve your reflux symptoms based on the inventory available, your history and preferences. I hope that I have been helpful to you and remain available if you have any further questions! Sincerely, Tom Samaha, pharmacist