>Michael: Metamucil is a fiber laxative. Why did the doctor prescribe it? >It is usually prescribed for constipation which is a common PD problem. >Bob B. Strange as it may seem, Metamucil ALSO works for diarrhea, as I know because I take it daily because of the after effect of radiation 11 years ago, when I had cancer/hysterectomy. It is possible to regulate the amount of fiber and water , and one takes a lot more water for constipation. Perhaps it didn't help Michael's dad enough because he didn't use the right amount? I take a rounded tablespoonful with about 6oz of H2O three times a day now--more than when I started. When Peter used to use it for constipation he took a spoonful with a LARGE glass of H2O, at least 10 -12 oz. (This no longer works for him, though.) It is a strange paradox, but true...... Camilla Flintermann, CG for Peter 82/70/55 Oxford, Ohio <[log in to unmask]> on the web at http://members.tripod.lycos.nl/genugten/flinterm.htm and also at http://www.geocities.com/camillahf/index.html "Ask me about the CARE list for Caregivers of Parkinsonians ! " And visit the CARE webring at http://www.crosswinds.net/~caregivers/index.html ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn