Simethicone

(sih-METH-ih-kone)

Degas, Extra Strength Gas-X, Flatulex, Genasyme, Genasyme Drops, Gas-X, Maalox Anti-Gas, Mylanta Gas, Maximum Strength Mylanta Gas, Mylicon, Phazyme, Phazyme 95, Phazyme 125, Simethicone,  Ovol-40, Ovol-80, Ovol Drops, Phazyme-55

Class: Antiflatulent

 Action Relieves flatulence by dispersing and preventing formation of mucus-surrounded gas pockets in GI tract.

 Indications Relief of painful symptoms and pressure of excess gas in digestive tract. Adjunct in treatment of many conditions in which gas retention may be problem, such as postoperative gaseous distention and pain, endoscopic examination, air swallowing, functional dyspepsia, peptic ulcer, spastic or irritable colon, diverticulosis. Unlabeled use(s): Treatment of infant colic.

 Contraindications Standard considerations.

 Route/Dosage

CAPSULES

ADULTS: PO 125 mg qid after meals and at bedtime.

TABLETS

ADULTS: PO 40 to 125 mg qid after meals and at bedtime.

LIQUID (DROPS)

ADULTS: PO 40 to 80 mg qid (up to 500 mg/day). CHILDREN 2 to 12 YR: PO 40 mg qid. CHILDREN < 2 YR: PO 20 mg qid (up to 240 mg/day).

 Interactions

None well documented.

 Lab Test Interferences None well documented.

 Adverse Reactions

None well documented.

 Precautions None well documented.

PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS

 Administration/Storage

• Tablets: Be certain patient chews tablet thoroughly or allows tablet to dissolve in mouth.
• Liquid: Shake well before using.
• Store tablets/capsules at room temperature in well closed container.
• Store suspension at room temperature in tight, light-resistant container. Do not freeze.

 Assessment/Interventions

• Obtain patient history, including drug history and any known allergies.
• Assess baseline bowel sounds and gastrointestinal status prior to therapy, and continue to monitor bowel sounds throughout therapy.
• Assess for belching and flatus as evidence of drug action.
• Monitor effectiveness of therapy, documenting decreased abdominal distention and discomfort.

 Patient/Family Education

• Advise patient to report any worsening of GI symptoms to physician.

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