Flacol

Flacol Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Flacol is a brand name. Its generic name is Simethicone.

Introduction

Flacol is an over-the-counter product used to treat gas and to reduce bloating. It is a synthetic organic silicone compound that helps break gas bubbles and improves digestive tract motility. It is often referred to as an “anti-foaming agent” due to its ability to reduce surface tension of gas bubbles.

Uses

Flacol is used to treat gas and to reduce bloating in adults, as well as children two years of age or older. It is also effective at preventing gas during air travel. It may also be used in people with gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and pancreatitis.

Mechanism of Action

Flacol works by changing the surface tension of gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, reducing the size of the bubbles and allowing them to pass. This reduces the amount of gas present in the digestive tract and relieves and prevents bloating. Flacol does not actually absorb gas, but rather works by forming a protective coating around gas bubbles to enable their easier passage from the body.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The effect of simethicone can be felt within minutes, and usually lasts for several hours. It is a not a long-term solution and should not be taken regularly.

Absorption

Flacol is not absorbed by the body. It remains in the stomach and intestines, where it changes surface tension, reducing the size of gas bubbles.

Route of Elimination

Flacol is eliminated from the body in the stool. Since it is not absorbed, simethicone can be eliminated from the body within a day.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of simethicone depends on the patient's age. For adults and children 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 40-125mg four times a day after meals and at bedtime. For children younger than 12 years, the recommended dose is 20-50mg four times a day after meals and at bedtime. It is important not to exceed the recommended dosage.

Administration

Flacol can be taken orally, either with a glass of water or at bedtime without water. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not chewed or broken apart. There is currently no intravenous or topical formulation of the drug.

Side Effects

Flacol is generally well tolerated and has few side effects. Common side effects include nausea, abdominal discomfort, and headache. In rare cases, dizziness, rash, vomiting, and diarrhea have been reported. If any of these side effects are bothersome or do not go away, it is important to consult a doctor.

Toxicity

Flacol is not toxic and has a high safety margin. Overdose symptoms may include vomiting, drowsiness, and abdominal discomfort. In such cases, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Precautions

Flacol should not be used by people who are allergic to it. It should also not be taken by people with liver or kidney disease. Flacol should also not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women without consulting a doctor.

Interactions

Flacol may interact with other medications such as antacids, oral antibiotics, laxatives, and estrogens. It is important to check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking simethicone in combination with other drugs.

Disease Interaction

Flacol can interact with certain diseases and conditions such as liver or kidney disease. It should not be taken by people with these diseases without consulting a doctor.

Drug Interaction

Flacol can interact with other medications such as antacids, oral antibiotics, laxatives, and estrogens. It is important to check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking simethicone in combination with other drugs.

Food Interactions

Flacol is not known to interact with any foods or drinks. However, drinking plenty of fluids is recommended while taking simethicone to help reduce bloating.

Pregnancy Use

Flacol should not be taken by pregnant women without consulting a doctor. Its safety for new borns or nursing mothers has not been established.

Lactation Use

Flacol should not be taken by lactating women without consulting a doctor. Its safety for new borns or nursing mothers has not been established.

Acute Overdose

Flacol is not toxic and has a high safety margin, however an overdose of the medication can lead to vomiting, drowsiness, and abdominal discomfort. In such cases, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Contraindication

Flacol should not be taken by people who are allergic to it. It should also not be taken by people with liver or kidney disease. Flacol should also not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women without consulting a doctor.

Uses Direction

Flacol can be taken orally, either with a glass of water or at bedtime without water. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not chewed or broken apart. There is currently no intravenous or topical formulation of the drug.

Storage Condition

Flacol should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Unopened tablets should be kept in their original packaging and expired tablets should be disposed of properly.

Volume of Distribution

Flacol is not absorbed by the body and is not distributed in the bloodstream. It remains in the stomach and intestines, where it changes the surface tension of gas bubbles.

Half Life

Flacol does not have a half-life; it is eliminated from the body within a day.

Clearance

Flacol is eliminated from the body via the stool. It is not cleared from the body by the kidney or liver, and therefore does not require any special clearance tests.

Here you find in details version of Flacol

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Flacol

What is Flacol?

Flacol is an anti-foaming agent used to reduce gases caused by intestinal discomfort. It is found in a wide variety of over-the-counter medications to treat flatulence, as well as infant and children’s versions of those medications. Flacol is also available in generic and store brands of antacids.

How does Flacol work?

Flacol helps break up the bubbles of gas that form in the stomach and intestinal tract. By breaking up these bubbles, Flacol helps relieve bloating, pressure, and gas pains. It does not actually reduce the gases that are causing the symptoms, but makes it easier for them to be released.

Is Flacol safe?

Flacol is generally considered to be safe when taken at recommended doses. It has been in use for over 40 years, and has few reported side effects. Some people may be allergic to it, but this is rare.

Is Flacol good for heartburn?

Flacol is not typically recommended for heartburn as it does not address the underlying cause of the symptom. It works best for relieving gas and bloating.

Is Flacol the same as activated charcoal?

No, Flacol and activated charcoal are two different substances. Activated charcoal is a type of carbon used to absorb and trap toxins in the digestive system, while Flacol works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines.

What is the standard dose of Flacol?

The standard dose of Flacol is 80 to 125 mg, taken four times daily or as recommended by your doctor. However, it's important to follow the directions on the product label, as the dosing can vary depending on the medication and product.

How quickly does Flacol work?

Flacol usually takes effect within minutes of taking it. However, the full effects may take up to two hours to be felt.

Is Flacol an antacid?

No, Flacol is not an antacid. It is an anti-foaming agent that helps break up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines.

Is Flacol a laxative?

No, Flacol is not a laxative. It works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, which can help reduce bloating and gas discomfort.

Is Flacol absorbed by the body?

No, Flacol is not absorbed by the body. It works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, and is then excreted through the digestive system.

How long can I take Flacol?

Flacol can be taken on a short-term basis. Consult with your doctor if you need to take Flacol for more than two weeks.

Can I take Flacol with ibuprofen?

Yes, you can take Flacol with ibuprofen. However, it is important to follow the directions on the product label or consult with your doctor regarding dosage and timing.

Is Flacol available as a prescription?

No, Flacol is not available as a prescription. It is an over-the-counter medication that can be purchased without a prescription from a pharmacy or online store.

Can pregnant women take Flacol?

Yes, pregnant women can take Flacol at recommended doses. However, it is recommended that pregnant women consult their doctor before taking any medication, including Flacol.

Is Flacol the same as charcoal?

No, Flacol and charcoal are two different substances. Flacol helps break up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, while charcoal is an absorbent substance used to capture toxins in the digestive system.

What medications contain Flacol?

Flacol is found in a wide variety of over-the-counter medications, including gas relief and antacids. It is also available in generic and store brands of antacids.

Is Flacol ok for cats?

Flacol is not recommended for cats. Do not give your pet cat Flacol unless instructed to by a veterinarian.

Can Flacol be bought without a prescription?

Yes, Flacol is available over-the-counter and can be purchased without a prescription. It is found in a wide variety of medications, including gas relief and antacids.

Can kids take Flacol?

Yes, children can take Flacol as recommended on the product label. Infant and children's versions of Flacol-containing medications are also available. Consult with your child's doctor before giving them Flacol.

Is Flacol a drug?

No, Flacol is not a drug. It is an over-the-counter anti-foaming agent used to reduce gases caused by intestinal discomfort.

Can Flacol make gas worse?

Flacol helps break up the bubbles of gas that form in the stomach and intestine, which makes it easier for them to be released. It does not make gas worse but can occasionally cause minor side effects such as a feeling of fullness or stomach upset.

Is Flacol gluten-free?

Yes, Flacol is gluten-free. It is an over-the-counter anti-foaming agent used to reduce gases caused by intestinal discomfort.

Can Flacol be taken with other medications?

Yes, Flacol can be taken with other medications. However, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist to make sure that the combination of medications is safe and effective.

Is Flacol an antibiotic?

No, Flacol is not an antibiotic. It is an anti-foaming agent used to reduce gases caused by intestinal discomfort.

Is Flacol safe for long-term use?

Flacol is generally considered to be safe when taken at recommended doses for short-term use. However, it's important to consult your doctor before taking Flacol for more than two weeks.

Is Flacol safe for dogs?

Flacol is generally considered to be safe for dogs, but it is important to consult a veterinarian before giving it to your pet. Flacol can help alleviate gas and bloating in dogs if administered correctly.

What are the side effects of Flacol?

Flacol is generally considered to be safe when taken at recommended doses. Reported side effects include a feeling of fullness, stomach upset, constipation, and diarrhea. In rare cases, some people may be allergic to Flacol.

What is the dosage for Flacol for adults?

The standard dose of Flacol for adults is 80 to 125 mg, taken four times daily or as recommended by your doctor. However, it's important to follow the directions on the product label, as the dosing can vary depending on the medication and product.

Can Flacol be taken on an empty stomach?

Yes, Flacol can be taken on an empty stomach. However, it is best to take it with meals or snacks. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label for best results.

Does Flacol interact with any other medications?

Yes, Flacol may interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics. Be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medications to make sure that the combination is safe and effective.

What is the best way to take Flacol?

The best way to take Flacol is as directed on the product label. It can be taken with or without food, but it is best to take it with meals or snacks. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label for best results.

Can I take a doubling dose of Flacol if it does not seem to be working?

No, it is not recommended to take an increased dose of Flacol. It is important to follow the directions on the product label or consult with your doctor regarding dosage and timing.

What is the difference between Flacol and Ipeca?

Flacol is an anti-foaming agent used to reduce gases caused by intestinal discomfort, while Ipeca is an expectorant used to treat chest congestion and coughing. They are two different substances with different uses.

What is the active ingredient in Flacol?

The active ingredient in Flacol is an anti-foaming agent called polydimethylsiloxane. It works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, which helps reduce bloating and gas discomfort.

Is Flacol the same as Mylanta?

No, Flacol and Mylanta are two different substances. Flacol is an anti-foaming agent used to reduce gases caused by intestinal discomfort, while Mylanta is an antacid used to relieve heartburn, acid reflux, and sour stomach.

Does Flacol contain lactose?

No, Flacol does not contain lactose. It is an anti-foaming agent used to reduce gases caused by intestinal discomfort.

Does Flacol contain alcohol?

No, Flacol does not contain alcohol. It is an anti-foaming agent used to reduce gases caused by intestinal discomfort.

Can Flacol cause constipation?

Yes, Flacol can cause constipation. In rare cases, some people may experience minor side effects such as a feeling of fullness, stomach upset, constipation, and diarrhea.

Can Flacol be taken with Tylenol?

Yes, Flacol can be taken with Tylenol. However, it is important to follow the directions on the product label or consult with your doctor regarding dosage and timing.

What is the shelf life of Flacol?

The shelf life of Flacol varies depending on the product. Consult with the product label or check with your pharmacist for the shelf life of the specific product.