SIMETHICONE
Simethicone is an anti-foaming agent that helps relieve symptoms of gas such as painful or uncomfortable or pressure, fullness, or bloating. In the digestive tract, its actions decrease the surface tension of gas bubbles, causing them to form larger bubbles. However, it is to be noted that it cannot reduce or prevent gas formation in the digestive tract. Eventually, it provides relief from symptoms of excessive gas, like bloating, burping and flatulence.
Simethicone is sold, under the Brand names like Alka-Seltzer® Anti-Gas, Colic Drops, Colicon®, Degas®, Flatulex® Drops, amongst others. Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. filed the first patent for making this medicine in 1997 for their Simethicone/ anhydrous calcium phosphate compositions. Later, Shire Laboratories, Inc. also filed for patents in 1999 followed by Panacea Biotec Ltd in 2005 for the specific formulations and preparations.Forms and Dosage:
Simethicone is available as Liquid Filled Capsule, Chewable Tablet, Suspension, Tablet and Solution. The tablets are chewable; however, the capsules are to be swallowed whole. In the treatment of Dyspepsia, the Usual Adult Dose, when taken Chewable Tablets is 80 to 160 mg, to be taken orally. If taking the Extra Strength 125 mg Capsules, the recommended dose is 125 to 250 mg. When taking the Ultra Strength 180 mg, the dose is 180 to 360 mg and finally, if taking the Maximum Strength 250 mg Capsules, the dose is 250 to 500 mg. the maximum dose is capped at 500mg per day.While controlling or treating Flatulence, the recommended Usual Adult Dose if taking Chewable Tablets is, 80 to 160 mg, or if taking Extra Strength 125 mg Capsules, the dose is 125 to 250 mg. If taking Ultra Strength 180 mg Capsules the dose is 180 to 360 mg and when taking the Maximum Strength 250 mg Capsules the recommended dose is 250 to 500 mg, taken orally once after a meal.