Anaphylactic shock due to ingestion of psyllium laxative.

Psyllium, seed of Plantago ovata, is a major constituent of several bulk laxatives. There are several reports on its role as an occupational respiratory allergen. We describe a severe anaphylactic reaction caused by ingestion of psyllium laxative. The hypersensitivity to Plantago ovata was confirmed by skin testing and RAST. The possibility of hypersensitivity reaction to psyllium laxatives should be recognized and included in marketing information.