Simethicone is an anti-flatulent/anti-foaming agent used for the symptomatic relief of abdominal bloating, distension, and discomfort caused by excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract. It is a mixture of polydimethylsiloxane and silica gel, acting as a surfactant that lowers the surface tension of gas bubbles, causing them to coalesce and be more easily expelled. It is not systemically absorbed and is considered extremely safe.
Adult: 40-125 mg after meals and at bedtime, up to 500 mg daily. For 140mg strength: 1 tablet/capsule after meals and at bedtime, not exceeding 4 doses (560mg) in 24 hours.
Note: Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. Capsules and regular tablets should be swallowed whole with water. Liquid formulations should be shaken well. Best taken after meals and at bedtime. For infants, administer drops directly into the mouth or mix with a small amount of cool water/infant formula.
Simethicone is a surfactant with defoaming properties. It decreases the surface tension of gas bubbles trapped in the gastrointestinal mucus and ingested food, causing them to coalesce. This results in larger bubbles that are more easily expelled from the body via belching or passing flatus, thereby relieving symptoms of gas retention.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). However, considered safe as it is not absorbed. Widely used in all trimesters. Indian guidelines consider it safe for use during pregnancy.
Driving: No effect. Does not cause drowsiness.
| No significant drug interactions known. | None. | None |
Same composition (Simethicone (140mg)), different brands: