Introduction
Simethicone is a silicon based surfactant that decreases the surface tension of gastrointestinal gas bubbles to facilitate their elimination. It has a favourable safety profile as it is not systemically absorbed.
Uses
Simethicone is an anti-flatulence agent used to relieve pressure, bloating, and symptoms referred to as gas.
Simethicone is indicated for the treatment of bloating, pressure, and cramps caused by gas. Simethicone is also used as part of bowel preparation for colonoscopies.
Associated Conditions
Pharmacodynamics
Simethicone decreases the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating their expulsion. It has a short duration of action as it is generally given as needed, and a wide therapeutic index as it is not systemically absorbed.
Mechanism of Action
Simethicone is a surfactant that decreases the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, more easily allowing gas to exit the body.
Absorption
Simethicone is not systemically absorbed and so these data are not readily available.
Volume of Distribution
Simethicone is not systemically absorbed and so these data are not readily available.
Protein Binding
Simethicone is not systemically absorbed and so these data are not readily available.
Route of Elimination
Simethicone is eliminated in the feces.
Half Life
Simethicone is not systemically absorbed and so these data are not readily available.
Clearance
Simethicone is not systemically absorbed and so these data are not readily available.
Toxicity
Data regarding overdoses with simethicone are rare due to the fact that it is not systemically absorbed.. In the case of an overdose stop the drug and initiate symptomatic and supportive care.
Food Interactions
- Take with or without food. Recommendations vary from product to product - consult individual product monographs for additional information.
Dosage
Children less than 2 years of age: 20 mg (0.3 ml Simethicone Paediatric Drops) 4 times daily up to 240 mg/day (3.6 ml Simethicone Paediatric Drops).
Children 2-12 years of age: 40 mg (0.6 ml Simethicone Paediatric Drops) 4 times daily.
Adults:
- 40-125 mg (0.6 ml-1.9 ml Simethicone Paediatric Drops) 4 times daily, up to 500 mg/day (7.5 ml Simethicone Paediatric Drops) or
- 1-3 Simethicone chewable tablets; 4 times daily, up to 500 mg/day (12 Simethicone chewable tablets).
