Medicine Description Simethicone
simethicone is an emulsifying syrup used to treat gas, colic, and bloating. It is considered an anti-gas and
anti-bloating syrup, relieving feelings of fullness in adults and adolescents.
It works by altering the surface tension of gases in the intestines and stomach, thus facilitating the passage and
elimination of gas bubbles. It also reduces their formation.
The active ingredient in simethicone
The active ingredient in simethicone is activated dimethicone.
Uses of Simethicone
Simethicone is used for:
- Relieving pressure on the stomach and intestines caused by gas.
- Reducing symptoms associated with gas, such as belching, bloating, or colic.
- Relieving constipation.
Contraindications of Simethicone
- Do not use simethicone without consulting a doctor or pharmacist, especially in the following cases:
-
Hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any of its components. People with certain chronic illnesses,
especially stomach or intestinal diseases.
- People with phenylketonuria (PKU) due to its phenylalanine content.
Precautions should be taken in the following cases:
-
Discontinue use of this medication and consult your doctor if there is no response, improvement, or if your
condition worsens.
- simethicone for Pregnant Women: Its use is not recommended during pregnancy as it may affect the fetus.
-
It is not recommended for use during breastfeeding except in emergencies or under the supervision of a doctor.
Recommended Dosage for simethicone
Consult your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage of Simethicone lozenges for each patient based on their health
condition, age, and weight. However, the usual dosage is as follows, or as directed by your doctor:
- Adult Simethicone: 40-125 mg, 3 to 4 times daily.
- Maximum daily dose: 500 mg.
Children:
- simethicone dosage for newborns up to 2 years of age: 20 mg daily, maximum dose is 240 mg daily.
- Children over 2 years of age: 40 mg 2 to 4 times daily, maximum dose is 480 mg daily.
- Children weighing less than 10 kg: 20 mg daily, maximum dose is 240 mg daily.
- Children weighing more than 10 kg: 40 mg daily, maximum dose is 480 mg daily.
Side effects of simethicone use
- Diarrhea.
- Headache.
- Nausea or vomiting.
Drug interactions with simethicone use:
The treating physician should be informed of all medications or vitamins the patient is taking before starting
simethicone, as it is advised to avoid concurrent use with the following medications
- Heart medications, for example: digoxin.
- Antibiotics: ciprofloxacin.
- Certain cancer medications such as infigratinib and dasatinib.
- Some thyroid medications, such as levothyroxine, should be taken at least 4 hours apart.
How to store simethicone
- Store in a dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Store at room temperature (20-25°C).
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why is simethicone used?
This medication is used to relieve colic, flatulence, and bloating, which cause a feeling of fullness, abdominal pain,
and discomfort in children and adults. Dosage varies depending on the patient's age and weight, and is determined by a
doctor based on each individual case.
When does simethicone start working?
The onset of action may vary from person to person, but it typically begins within minutes to a maximum of 4 hours. It
works by relieving abdominal pain caused by bloating and gas.
Does simethicone cause drowsiness in infants?
This medication does not cause drowsiness or sleepiness because it contains the active ingredient dimethicone, which
reduces the surface tension of gas bubbles in the abdomen, thus eliminating the bloating and pain they cause.
Is simethicone safe during pregnancy?
This medication is considered relatively safe for pregnant women because it works locally within the digestive system.
However, you should consult your doctor before taking it to determine if it is suitable for your individual condition
and to establish the appropriate dosage.