Flacol 40

Indications

• Relief of Digestive Discomfort: Flacol effectively alleviates symptoms such as flatulence, abdominal distention, and gas-related colic. It aids in the elimination of excess gas caused by factors like air swallowing or incompatible foods, particularly beneficial for infants by acting in the stomach and intestines to facilitate easier gas release through belching or passing flatus.
• Enhanced Bowel Preparation: When added to polyethylene glycol preparations, Flacol improves symptoms prior to investigations, particularly useful in cases of accidental ingestion of foaming detergents.
• Poisoning Management: Flacol is utilized anecdotally to manage accidental ingestion of foaming detergents, acting as an antifoaming agent.

Pharmacology

• Antiflatulent Properties: Simethicone in Flacol relieves symptoms associated with gas, such as bloating and pressure in the upper GI tract. Its action reduces gas bubbles’ surface tension, enabling easier elimination through belching or passing flatus. It aids in reducing postoperative gas pains and enhances visualization during procedures like gastroscopy.

Dosage & Administration

• Optimal Use: Flacol is recommended to be taken after meals and at bedtime. For infants, it can be administered directly with feeds. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure proper dosage.
• Dosage Guidelines:
  • Children under 2 years: 20 mg (0.3 ml Simethicone Paediatric Drops) four times daily, up to 240 mg/day.
  • Children 2-12 years: 40 mg (0.6 ml Simethicone Paediatric Drops) four times daily.
  • Adults: 40-125 mg (0.6 ml-1.9 ml Simethicone Paediatric Drops) four times daily, up to 500 mg/day, or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Interaction

• Compatibility: Flacol does not affect the efficacy of other medications. However, its defoaming effect may be reduced by antacids such as Aluminium Hydroxide and Magnesium Carbonate, which absorb the silicone.

Side Effects

• Safety Profile: Flacol is considered physiologically inert, with no reported adverse effects after oral ingestion.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Safety Assurance: There is no available data suggesting harmful effects on pregnant women or excretion into breast milk during lactation.

Precautions & Warnings

• Usage Caution: Do not exceed 12 doses per day unless under the supervision of a physician.

Therapeutic Class

• Medical Classification: Flacol belongs to the category of anti-dyspeptic and carminative medications.

Storage Conditions

• Proper Storage: Store Flacol in a cool, dry place away from light, and ensure it is kept out of reach of children.