GENERIC NAME: simethicone

BRAND NAME: Phazyme; Flatulex; Mylicon; Gas-X; Mylanta Gas

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Simethicone is an anti-gas (anti-flatulence) medication. It acts in the stomach and intestines to change the surface tension of gas bubbles, enabling smaller bubbles to join together into bigger bubbles. In this way it is believed that gas can be eliminated more easily by belching or passing flatus. Simethicone was approved by the FDA in 1952.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes

PRESCRIPTION: no

PREPARATIONS: Liquid drops: 40 mg per 0.6 ml. Chewable tablets: 40mg, 80mg, 125mg. Tablets: 60mg, 95mg. Capsules: 125mg.

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

PRESCRIBED FOR: Simethicone is used to relieve the abdominal pain which is due to excessive gas in the digestive tract.

DOSING: Simethicone can be taken after each meal and at bedtime. The drops can be mixed with water, infant formula or other liquids for use in small children.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: There are no known drug interactions with simethicone.

PREGNANCY: Simethicone is safe during pregnancy.

NURSING MOTHERS: Simethicone is safe for use by nursing mothers.

SIDE EFFECTS: There have been no reported side effects with simethicone.
Last Editorial Review: 6/8/1999 10:31:00 PM

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Intestinal Gas - Learn about intestinal gas (belching, bloating, flatulence) including causes, how it is evaluated, and how excessive intestinal gas is treated
• Colic in Babies - Learn about the symptoms, signs and treatment of colic, incessant crying in newborns. Learn potential causes, how long it lasts, and suggested remedies.

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