What is simeticone?
Simeticone is an anti-foaming substance used to treat digestive disorders associated with bloating and intestinal gas. It acts by reducing the surface tension of gas bubbles, facilitating their natural elimination by the body.
Present in many antiflatulent and antibloating medications, simeticone is often used in cases of difficult digestion, aerophagia and intestinal colic. Unlike antispasmodics, it has no effect on intestinal motility, making it well-tolerated and non-addictive.
What are the benefits of simeticone?
Simeticone is particularly effective in :
- Reduce bloating and digestive discomfort → Help evacuate gas accumulated in the intestine.
- Relieve gas-related abdominal pain → Reduces pressure on intestinal walls.
- Improve digestion → Reduces symptoms associated with excessive fermentation of food.
- Treat aerophagia and excessive belching → Promotes better evacuation of gas by the natural route.
- Reduce infant colic → Helps soothe digestive pain in babies.
- Prepare for certain medical examinations → Used before abdominal ultrasound to limit the presence of troublesome gas.
How to use simeticone
Simeticone is available in several forms, adapted to individual needs:
Swallowable tablets or capsules
- For adults suffering from recurrent bloating.
- To be taken after meals or at the onset of symptoms.
As a drinkable suspension
- Ideal for infants and young children.
- Easy to administer in drop form.
In dissolvable sachets
- For rapid absorption and immediate relief.
- Convenient for people with difficulty swallowing tablets.
Recommended dosage:
- Adults → 80 to 125 mg per dose, after meals and/or at bedtime.
- Children and infants → Dosage adapted according to age, under medical advice.
Is simeticone effective against bloating and aerophagia?
Yes, simeticone acts directly on gas bubbles trapped in the digestive system, enabling to:
- Facilitate evacuation by belching or intestinal route.
- Reduce the sensation of a bloated stomach after meals.
- Soothe digestive discomfort linked to intestinal fermentation.
It is often combined with digestive enzymes for better food assimilation.
Is simeticone suitable for infants suffering from colic?
Yes, simeticone is commonly prescribed to relieve infant colic because :
- It does not pass into the bloodstream, avoiding any systemic side-effects.
- It acts locally in the intestine, without disturbing the baby's natural digestion.
- It is well tolerated, with no risk of dependence or addiction.
It is often used in the form of drinkable drops, administered before or after bottle-feeding.
Is simeticone useful before abdominal ultrasound?
Yes, simeticone is often prescribed before an ultrasound or digestive endoscopy to :
- Reduce the presence of intestinal gas, thus improving image quality.
- Avoid interference from air bubbles, which can mask certain organs.
It is generally taken the day before and the day of the examination, according to the doctor's recommendations.
What's the difference between simeticone and activated charcoal?
- Simeticone → Acts to reduce gas bubbles, enabling easier evacuation.
- Activated charcoal → Absorbs toxins and gases present in the intestine, but may cause constipation with prolonged use.
These two solutions are sometimes combined in digestive supplements for a synergistic effect.
Where can I buy quality simeticone?
Simeticone is available in :
- Pharmacies and parapharmacies → In the form of tablets, capsules or drinkable suspensions.
- Specialist food supplement stores → In combination with digestive enzymes.
- Online health sites → Offering formulas suitable for adults and infants.
Choose formulas without sugar or artificial additives, especially for babies and children.
Does simeticone have any contraindications?
Although very well tolerated, simeticone must be used with certain precautions:
- Avoid use in cases of hypersensitivity to any of its components.
- Do not use in cases of intestinal obstruction or unexplained abdominal pain.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose, even in cases of persistent bloating.
It is generally considered safe and without serious side effects, even with prolonged use.
