calcium polycarbophil

Calcium polycarbophil is a synthetic, bulk-forming laxative and antidiarrheal agent. Chemically, it is the calcium salt of polycarbophil, a high-molecular-weight polyacrylic acid cross-linked with divinyl glycol. It functions primarily by absorbing large quantities of water in the gastrointestinal tract, which increases stool bulk and moisture to facilitate bowel movements in cases of constipation, or absorbs excess fluid to improve stool consistency in cases of diarrhea. Beyond its gastrointestinal applications, polycarbophil is utilized as a bioadhesive polymer in non-hormonal vaginal moisturizers (e.g., Replens) to alleviate symptoms of vaginal atrophy and dryness by adhering to the vaginal epithelium and maintaining hydration. It is widely available over-the-counter as a generic and under various brand names.

Brand names

FiberConEqualactinFiber-LaxFibernormMitrolanReplens

Other names

polycarbophil calciumpolycarbophil