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- What is simethicone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- What are the uses for simethicone?
- What are the side effects of simethicone?
- What is the dosage for simethicone?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with simethicone?
- Is simethicone safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
- What else should I know about simethicone?
What is simethicone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Simethicone is an anti-gas (anti-flatulence) medication. It acts in the stomach and intestines to change the surface tension of gas bubbles, enabling their breakdown and the formation of larger 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.
Is simethicone available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for simethicone?
No
What are the uses for simethicone?
Simethicone relieves abdominal pain due to excessive gas in the digestive tract. It also is given to patients undergoing upper abdominal ultrasound imaging.
What are the side effects of simethicone?
Common side effects may include:
What is the dosage for simethicone?
The recommended dose for relieving gas is 40-125 mg 4 times daily after meals and at bedtime. The drops can be mixed with water, infant formula or other liquids for use in small children.
QUESTION
Pancreatitis is inflammation of an organ in the abdomen called the pancreas. See AnswerWhich drugs or supplements interact with simethicone?
There are no known drug interactions with simethicone.
Is simethicone safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Safety during pregnancy has not been adequately evaluated. Simethicone is generally considered safe during pregnancy because it does not cross the placenta.
Simethicone is considered safe during lactation because it is not absorbed into the body and infants are often treated with simethicone.
What else should I know about simethicone?
What preparations of simethicone are available?
Liquid drops: 40 mg per 0.6 ml. Chewable tablets: 40, 80 and 125 mg. Capsules: 125 and 180 mg.
How should I keep simethicone stored?
Preparations should be stored at room temperature, 15 C - 30 C (59 F - 86 F).
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Summary
Simethicone (Phazyme, Mi-Acid, Gas Relief, Mytab Gas, Gas-X, Gas-X Extra Strength, Gas-X Ultra Strength) is an antigas medication used to relieve abdominal pain caused by excessive gas. Review side effects, drug interactions, dosage, and pregnancy safety information prior to taking this medication.
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Intestinal Gas (Belching, Bloating, Flatulence)
Gas (intestinal gas) means different things to different people. Everyone has gas and eliminates it by belching, burping, or farting (flatulence). Bloating or abdominal distension is a subjective feeling that the stomach is larger or fuller than normal. Belching or burping occurs when gas is expelled from the stomach out through the mouth. Flatulence or farting occurs when intestinal gas is passed from the anus. Causes of belching or burping include drinking too rapidly, anxiety, carbonated drinks, habit, and swallowing air. Learn about causes of intestinal gas, foods that cause gas and bloating, treatments that reduce excessive gas and soothe gas pain, and much more.
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Why Am I So Bloated and Gassy?
Bloating is a feeling that your abdomen is distended or larger than normal, but it does not necessarily mean that it is. Gas (flatulence) also can be a problem if you are bloated. Common, less serious causes of bloating are eating too fast, too much, or too many fatty foods; swallowing air; pregnancy; and menstruation. Cancer and IBD (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) are examples the more serious causes of bloating. Examples of foods and drinks that cause bloating are high fiber foods if you don't eat them regularly; eventually the bloating and gassiness will resolve if you eat them on a regular basis; fatty greasy foods, dairy products (for example, cheese, ice cream, milk, and yogurt); foods high in salt (for example, processed, frozen, and canned foods), and artificial sweeteners. Some doctors and other health care professionals recommend natural remedies like chamomile or peppermint tea, or pumpkin to relieve bloating. Examples of OTC medicine (medicine available without a prescription) and other products that may relieve bloating and gassiness are, Gas-X, Beano, Pepto Bismol, Metamucil, probiotics, and Ex-Lax for constipation associated with bloating. If you have persistent or severe gas and bloating, and if you have any of these symptoms see a doctor or other healthcare professional, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, chest pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, or if you think you are or may be pregnant.
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Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning sensation experienced from acid reflux (GERD). Symptoms of heartburn include chest pain, burning in the throat, difficulty swallowing, the feeling of food sticking in the throat, and a burning feeling in the chest. Causes of heartburn include dietary habits, lifestyle habits, and medical causes. Treatments for heartburn include lifestyle changes, OTC medication,prescription medication, and surgery.
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Heartburn during Pregnancy
Heartburn during pregnancy is quite common. During pregnancy the lower esophageal sphincter muscle becomes weakened , which likely occurs due to the effect of the high levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy. Fortunately, this resolves after pregnancy. Management of heartburn during pregnancy are generally involves lifestyle changes and avoiding foods that promote heartburn, for example, don't smoke, avoid tight clothing, eat small, frequent meals, chew gum, or sip liquids. The effect of heartburn medications on the fetus is unknown, so it is best to check with your OB/GYN if you feel you need medication to treat heartburn.
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Colic in Babies
Colic is crying or fussing that begins suddenly, lasting for a total of three hours a day and happening more than three days a week for about three weeks. Symptoms include the baby's face turning red, the belly is distended, the feet may be cold, the hands clenched, and the legs may alternate between being flexed or extended. Treatment may involve ruling out other causes of the fussing and the doctor prescribing anti-gas bubbly medicine.
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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.
Black R, Hill A. Over the counter medications in pregnancy. Am Fam Physician. 2003 Jun 15;67(12):2517-2524.