Simethicone is a medicine to treat belching, flatulence, or discomfort in the stomach due to increased gas production in the digestive tract. This drug can also be used to treat colic in babies .
Simethicone works by reducing the tension in the gas bubbles, so that the gas bubbles can be broken down. That way, gas flow becomes smooth and complaints due to increased gas production can also subside.
Simethicone trademarks: Gastulen, Hufamag, Lambucid, Magnidicon, Mylanta , Neolanta, Polysilane, Simeco, Stromag
What is Simethicone
| class | Free medicine |
| Category | Antiflatulence |
| Benefit | Overcome bloating or symptoms due to increased gas production in the stomach |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Simethicone for pregnant and lactating women |
Category C: Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.
It is not known whether simethicone is absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Tablets and syrup |
Precautions Before Taking Simethicone
Simethicone should not be used carelessly. There are several things that must be considered before taking simethicone, namely:
- Do not take simethicone if you are allergic to this drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- Avoid foods and drinks that can increase gas, such as carbonated or fizzy drinks while on treatment with this medicine.
- See a doctor immediately if you have an allergic drug reaction , serious side effects, or an overdose after taking simethicone.
Dosage and Rules for Using Simethicone
The usual dose of simethicone for flatulence is 100–250 mg, 3–4 times daily. This drug can be taken with antacids .
To treat colic in infants , the dose is 20-40 mg, 4 times a day. Dosage should not be more than 240 mg per day.
How to Take Simethicone Properly
Follow the doctor 's recommendations and read the instructions listed on the simethicone packaging before consuming it. Do not change the dosage without consulting your doctor first.
If you are taking simethicone in the form of chewable tablets, consume the medicine by chewing it first before swallowing it, so that the medicine can work more quickly.
For simethicone in syrup form, use the measuring spoon that is available in the package, so that the dosage is consumed correctly. Shake the medicine first before drinking.
Take simethicone at the same time every day for maximum results. If you forget to take simethicone, consume it immediately if the gap with the next dose is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.
Store simethicone in a closed container to avoid exposure to direct sunlight, store at room temperature, and keep out of reach of children.
Simethicone Interactions with Other Drugs
Simethicone can cause drug-drug interactions if used with other drugs. One of them is the interference with the absorption and effectiveness of drugs for thyroid disease, such as levothyroxine , liothyronine, or liotrix.
Side Effects and Dangers of Simethicone
If consumed according to the recommended dosage, this drug rarely causes side effects. However, if after consuming simethicone you experience certain complaints or allergic reactions to drugs which can be marked by swelling of the lips and eyelids, an itchy rash appears on the skin, or difficulty breathing, consult a doctor immediately.