attapulgite, Rheaban; Kaopectate Advanced Formula; Parepectolin; Diasorb; Diatrol; Donnagel

1. Take the Tummy Trouble Quiz
2. Digestive Disease Myths Slideshow Pictures
3. Ulcerative Colitis Slideshow

Pharmacy Author:

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

View Full Profile

Medical and Pharmacy Editor:

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

View Full Profile

GENERIC NAME: attapulgite

BRAND NAME: Rheaban; Kaopectate Advanced Formula; Parepectolin; Diasorb; Diatrol; Donnagel

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Attapulgite is an oral, nonabsorbed medication that is used in the management of diarrhea. It works by adsorbing (binding) large numbers of bacteria and toxins and reducing the loss of water. Attapulgite reduces the number of bowel movements, improves the consistency of loose or watery stools, and relieves the gastrointestinal cramping that often is associated with diarrhea.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

PRESCRIPTION: No

PREPARATIONS: Suspension: 600 mg/15ml or 750 mg/ml

STORAGE: Preparations should be stored at room temperature, 15-30 C (59-86 F).

PRESCRIBED FOR: Attapulgite is used for the short-term treatment of diarrhea.

DOSING: Attapulgite is taken after each loose bowel movement.

• Adults and adolescents over the age of 12 years may take 1.2 to 1.5 grams per dose, up to 8.4 grams per day.
• Children 6 to 12 years of age may take 600 to 750 mg after each loose bowel movement and up to 4.5 grams per day.
• Children 3 to 6 years of age may take 300 mg after each loose bowel movement up to a total of 2.1 grams (7 doses) per day.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Attapulgite can decrease the absorption of benztropine (Cogentin), trihexyphenidyl (Artane), loxapine (Loxitane) and dicyclomine (Bentyl) if taken at the same time. These medications should be taken at least 2 hours earlier or later than attapulgite. Attapulgite and other antidiarrheals can worsen constipation caused by opiate pain relievers such as oxycodone (Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin), propoxyphene (Darvon), morphine, and codeine.

PREGNANCY: Attapulgite is safe during pregnancy.

NURSING MOTHERS: Attapulgite is safe to use in nursing mothers.

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation is the main side effect of attapulgite. It can also cause bloating, flatulence, stomach upset, and nausea.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.