Citrucel Shortage: What Happened and What You Can Do Now
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Citrucel Shortage and Fiber Supplement Alternatives
Between October 2023 and March 2024, Citrucel—a beloved fiber supplement—became increasingly hard to find. The Citrucel shortage left many people searching for alternatives to support their digestive health. Contributing factors included a global methylcellulose supply issue, increased demand, and manufacturing delays. While the shortage has since resolved, many consumers are still concerned about availability. In this article, we'll explore what caused the Citrucel shortage, what’s changed, and what fiber supplement options are available now—including safe, effective generics you can trust.
Citrucel, a beloved fiber supplement, has found itself in a state of scarcity in recent months, leaving many people searching for alternatives to address their digestive health needs. Several key factors have contributed to this Citrucel shortage, including increased demand, a global shortage of methylcellulose, and manufacturing problems. In this article, we'll delve into these challenges and provide practical solutions for those struggling to find Citrucel.
The Citrucel Shortage: Why Did It Happen?
Increased Demand: From late 2023 through early 2024, demand for Citrucel surged. With an aging population and increased interest in digestive health, more people turned to fiber supplements—especially gentle options like Citrucel. The rise in plant-based diets also contributed to greater need for soluble fiber sources.
Global Methylcellulose Shortage: Citrucel’s key ingredient, methylcellulose, faced a temporary global shortage. Supply chain disruptions, including increased demand in international markets and lingering effects from the COVID-19 pandemic, tightened availability of this plant-based fiber.
Manufacturing Delays: Around this time, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) transitioned Citrucel production to a separate consumer healthcare company, Haleon. The change caused delays and reduced output. Production resumed in early 2024, with availability returning to normal by March.
Citrucel Shortage: What To Do Now
Although the Citrucel shortage has ended, many people are still seeking better options for cost and availability. Here’s what you can do:
- Talk to a Healthcare Provider: If Citrucel doesn’t agree with your stomach or is still hard to find in your area, your doctor or pharmacist may suggest other fiber types that work well for your digestive needs.
- Explore All Forms of Citrucel: Citrucel is available as powder, tablets, and caplets. If one is unavailable, the others may still be in stock.
- Buy Online When In-Store Stock Is Low: Amazon, Walmart, and other retailers may carry stock not available in your local pharmacy.
- Try a Generic Alternative: One of the best options during the shortage—and even now—is Major Fiber Therapy Methylcellulose Powder, which has the same active ingredient and comes at a lower cost.
Additional Tips for Managing Constipation Without Citrucel
- Adopt a High-Fiber Diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains in your meals to support daily fiber needs naturally.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Hydration is key for softening stool and supporting regular bowel movements.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps stimulate digestion and may reduce constipation symptoms.
- Practice Healthy Bathroom Habits: Avoid straining, use proper posture, and take your time when using the restroom.
- Stick to a Routine: Try to go to the bathroom around the same time each day. A regular schedule can help train your body and promote consistency.
If these strategies don’t resolve your symptoms, speak with a healthcare provider. They may recommend fiber supplements, medications, or other therapies tailored to your needs.
While the Citrucel shortage of 2023–2024 caused real disruptions, the good news is that supply has returned—and trusted alternatives like Major Fiber Therapy remain affordable, effective, and widely available.
Related Products
Major Fiber Therapy Methylcellulose Powder is the only generic equivalent to Citrucel Powder currently available. It does contain sugar, so it is not a substitute for Sugar-Free Citrucel. We recommend consulting your doctor before trying new products like Major Fiber Therapy.
Citrucel Methylcellulose Powder - 30 oz | Orange Flavor (4 Pack)
$109.99
Citrucel Methylcellulose Powder - 30 oz | Orange Flavor (4 Pack) This item CONTAINS sugar! What will I receive? 4 bottles of Citrucel Methylcellulose Powder -...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel
$13.99
Relieves constipation (irregularity) and helps to restore and maintain regularity. Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel Compare to the active...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel (2 Pack)
$24.98
Relieves constipation (irregularity) and helps to restore and maintain regularity. Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel Compare to the active...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel (4 Pack)
$39.96
Relieves constipation (irregularity) and helps to restore and maintain regularity. Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel Compare to the active...… read more
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Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this post.
FAQs
Why was there a Citrucel shortage?
Between October 2023 and March 2024, Citrucel experienced supply issues due to high demand, a global methylcellulose shortage, and manufacturing delays during its transition to a new producer, Haleon.
Is the Citrucel shortage over now?
Yes, Citrucel is back in stock in most locations as of Spring 2024. However, availability may still vary depending on region and retailer.
What is the best alternative to Citrucel?
Major Fiber Therapy is a popular generic alternative. It uses the same active ingredient—methylcellulose—and is often more affordable and widely available.
Can I get the same results from diet instead of supplements?
A high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains can help, but some people still need supplements for consistent results. Consult your doctor to determine what’s right for you.
Is Citrucel better than Metamucil for sensitive stomachs?
Many people with gas or bloating find Citrucel gentler because its fiber is non-fermentable. Metamucil contains psyllium, which can cause more gas in sensitive individuals.
