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Overview: Pectin is a soluble fiber found in the peels of certain fruits, including apples and citrus. It is often used to thicken fruit-based products, such as jams and preserves. Lozenges and gels that contain pectin are used to help relieve a sore throat. Pectin-based products may also be used for other reasons, but their benefits are not well defined. Common side effects may include constipation, diarrhea, bloating, or gas. Before using pectin, make sure to tell your health care provider about any health conditions you have or medicines you are taking.

Uses

What is pectin used for?

Pectin lozenges and gels are often used to help relieve a sore throat. Pectin lozenges are available as over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.

Pectin supplements may be used for other reasons, including to improve digestive health and lower cholesterol levels, but their benefits for these uses are not well defined.

These uses may vary depending on the specific pectin product.

Pectin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

Note: The FDA has not reviewed pectin dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about dietary supplements here.

How does pectin work (mechanism of action)?

Pectin is a soluble fiber found in the peels and skin of certain fruits, including apples, plums, and citrus fruits. Within these peels and skins, pectin acts as a glue to keep the cells together. Pectin powder is added to many fruit-based products, such as jams and preserves, to make them thicker and more gel-like. Some people also use pectin to thicken other foods and drinks.

Since pectin can form a gel when mixed with water, it is sometimes used to help relieve a sore throat. Most pectin products that are used for a sore throat are lozenges (or “throat drops”), although some people may also use gels that are swished and gargled.

Soluble fibers, such as pectin, are generally considered an important and healthy part of the diet. Pectin may help with digestive health by keeping bowel movements regular and boosting the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut. But it is not clear how much pectin is needed to have these effects. Soluble fibers can also help reduce the amount of cholesterol your body absorbs from the foods you eat. Learn more about the health benefits of dietary fibers here.

The natural pectin found in fruits stays in your gut and is not absorbed by your body. But a processed form of pectin, called modified citrus pectin (MCP), contains very small pieces of pectin that can be absorbed into the body. Once MCP is absorbed, it may have effects in the body that are different from those of natural pectin. Some products that contain MCP claim to help your body fight cancer. But the benefits of MCP for any use, including preventing and treating cancer, are not well defined.

How is pectin supplied (dosage forms)?

Pectin is available over the counter and as a dietary supplement in various strengths and dosage forms.

How should I store pectin?

Oral Lozenges. Pectin lozenges should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C) in a cool, dry place. Check the product label for specific storage information.

Dietary Supplements. You should store pectin supplements as directed on the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of pectin?

The most common side effects of pectin are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Bloating or gas
  • Constipation or diarrhea

There may be other side effects of pectin that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of pectin?

While less common, the most serious side effects of pectin are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Pectin may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using pectin and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use pectin?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use pectin.

  • Apple pectin
  • Citrus pectin
  • Modified citrus pectin (MCP)
  • Pectin
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific pectin products they stock.

What should I know about pectin before using it?

Pectin is added to many food products as a thickener. Pectin is also available for other uses in multiple forms, including over-the-counter medicines and dietary supplements. Read and follow the instructions that come with the product or use it as recommended by your health care provider. Pectin dietary supplements cannot be marketed to treat or cure a disease.

Keep pectin out of the reach of children. Some pectin products should not be used for young children. If your child is younger than 2 years old, speak to a health care provider before using any pectin lozenges or gels. Some products are also not recommended for use in older children, so read your product label closely.

If you are using pectin powder, use an accurate measuring device to measure the powder, such as the device included with the product. Read the label carefully and mix the powder with the amount of fluid stated on the label.

If you are using a pectin lozenge, place it directly into the mouth and allow it to fully dissolve. Do not chew or bite down on the lozenge. Some pectin lozenges may be referred to as “throat drops.” If the product label says to place one “drop” in the mouth, this is the same as one lozenge.

If you are using pectin gel, place the gel in your mouth. Then gargle and swish the gel around your mouth and upper throat for at least one minute before spitting it out.

If you are using pectin to help with a sore throat and symptoms last more than two days, seek medical help. If your sore throat is very severe or comes with a fever, headache, rash, swelling, nausea, or vomiting, get medical help. These symptoms may be signs of a serious condition that needs other treatments.

Do not confuse pectin with modified citrus pectin (MCP). Natural pectin stays in your gut and is not absorbed into your body. MCP, on the other hand, may get absorbed from your gut and cause effects in the body. Read the product label carefully to confirm which ingredient it contains.

What should I tell my health care provider before using pectin?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if pectin is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Other Medicines and Supplements. Pectin may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using pectin, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how pectin could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if pectin passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does pectin interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between pectin and foods or drinks, but taking pectin with food may help reduce the risk of side effects.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect pectin.

Does pectin interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are taking a beta-carotene supplement.

Pectin may also affect the absorption of some medicines. Tell your health care provider about all medicines that you take or have recently taken.

This may not be a complete list of medicines that can interact with pectin. Always check with your health care provider.

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much pectin?

If you or someone else has used too much pectin, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of pectin?

Pectin lozenges and gels are meant to be used only when needed. Use them as your health care provider recommends. Do not use double or extra doses.

Dietary supplements that contain pectin or modified citrus pectin (MCP) are usually available as powder or capsules. Read the product label closely and speak to a health care provider about how to use pectin supplements safely. Do not use double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.

If you are adding pectin powder to foods or drinks, do not use more than the amount recommended on the product label.