Generic Name: attapulgite
Brand Names: Rheaban, Kaopectate Advanced Formula, Parepectolin, Diasorb, Diatrol, Donnagel
Drug Class: N/A
What is attapulgite, and what is it used for?
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.
What are the side effects of attapulgite?
Constipation is the main side effect of attapulgite. It can also cause:
- bloating,
- flatulence,
- stomach upset, and
- nausea.
What is the dosage for attapulgite?
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.
Which drugs interact with attapulgite?
- 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.
Is attapulgite safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
What else should I know about attapulgite?
What preparations of attapulgite are available?
- Suspension: 600 mg/15ml or 750 mg/ml
How should I keep attapulgite stored?
- Preparations should be stored at room temperature, 15 C - 30 C (59 F - 86 F).

QUESTION
Pancreatitis is inflammation of an organ in the abdomen called the pancreas. See AnswerSummary
Attapulgite is a medication prescribed for the short-term treatment of diarrhea. Constipation is the main side effect of attapulgite. It can also cause bloating, flatulence, stomach upset, and nausea. Attapulgite is considered safe to use during pregnancy or if breastfeeding.
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