Simethicone

Generic name: Simethicone

Drug class: Miscellaneous GI agents

Dosage form: Oral capsule (125 mg; 180 mg; 250 mg), oral suspension (20 mg/0.3 mL), oral tablet, chewable (125 mg; 80 mg)

Root of administration: Oral

Dose:

• Adults and children over 12 years: 40–125 mg per dose, up to 500 mg per day, taken after meals and at bedtime.
• Children 2–12 years: 40 mg per dose, up to 480 mg per day, taken after meals and at bedtime.
• Children under 2 years: 20 mg per dose, up to 240 mg per day, taken after meals and at bedtime.

Mechanism of action: Simethicone is a surfactant that decreases the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating their coalescence into larger bubbles that are more easily expelled through belching or flatulence.

Drug usage cases:

• Relief of abdominal discomfort, bloating, and pressure caused by excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Adjunctive treatment in gastrointestinal imaging procedures to reduce gas interference.
• Management of functional gastric disorders associated with gas accumulation.

Drug contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to simethicone or any component of the formulation.

Side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Chills

Warnings:

• Use with caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to simethicone or any of its components.
• Consult a healthcare provider before use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Not recommended for use in infants under one month of age for colic pain due to lack of clinical safety and efficacy data.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Simethicone is not absorbed systemically and is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use during these periods to ensure safety for both mother and child.