Generic name: simethicone (sye METH i cone)
Brand name: Alka-Seltzer Anti-Gas, Bicarsim, Bicarsim Forte, Gas Aide, Gas-X, Little Tummys, Mi-Acid Gas Relief, Mylanta Gas Maximum Strength, Mylicon, Phazyme, SimePed, Mylanta Gas, Major-Con, Maximum Strength Mylanta Gas, Phazyme-95, Maximum Strength Phazyme 125 Softgels, Gas-X Extra Strength, Colic Drops, Colicon, Genasyme, Majorcon, Micon-80, Mylaval, Mytab Gas, Maalox Anti-Gas, Equalize Gas Relief Drops, Maalox Anti-Gas Extra Strength, Phazyme-125, Gas-X Liquid Extra Strength, Flatulex Drops, Phazyme Maximum Strength, Gas-X Maximum Strength, Gas X Extra Strength, Ovol, Phazyme Ultra, Infantaire Gas Relief, Gerber Gas Relief, Phazyme Ultra Strength, Gas-X Thin Strips, Gas-X Thin Strips Peppermint, Gas-X Thin Strips Cinnamon, Gas Relief Ultra Strength Softgels, Gas-X Infant Drops, Gas-X Tongue Twisters Thin Strips Children's, Gas Free Extra Strength, Gas-X Ultra Softgels, Gas Relief Extra Strength, Mylanta Gas Minis Mint, Mylanta Gas Minis Cherry, Mylanta Gas Minis Assorted Fruit
Dosage forms: oral capsule (125 mg; 180 mg; 250 mg); oral liquid (40 mg/0.6 mL); oral suspension (20 mg/0.3 mL); oral tablet (125 mg); oral tablet, chewable (125 mg; 80 mg)
Drug class: Miscellaneous GI agents
Simethicone is used to relieve painful pressure caused by excess gas in the stomach and intestines. Simethicone is for use in babies, children, and adults.
Simethicone may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use simethicone if you are allergic to it.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take simethicone if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have any type of serious illness (especially one that affects your stomach or intestines).
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The liquid form may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of simethicone if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
How should I take simethicone?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not take more of this medicine than directed.
Simethicone works best if you take it after meals and at bedtime.
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Simethicone liquid drops can be mixed with water, baby formula, or other liquids to make swallowing easier for an infant or child.
Always follow directions on the medicine label about giving simethicone to a child. Call your doctor if the child's gas symptoms do not improve after treatment with simethicone.
You may need to follow a special diet or increase your exercise while using simethicone. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods to eat or avoid to help control your condition.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not allow the liquid form of this medicine to freeze.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since simethicone is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while taking simethicone?
Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and use only the type your doctor recommends. Some antacids may contain simethicone.
Simethicone side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect simethicone?
Other drugs may affect simethicone, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.