Hydrotalcite+simethicone
About Hydrotalcite+simethicone
Hydrotalcite+simethicone is a combination medication used to treat peptic ulcers (stomach/duodenal ulcers), acute and chronic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), gastroesophageal reflux disease (a condition where stomach acid enters the food pipe, causing heartburn), acid dyspepsia (impaired digestion caused due to excess stomach acid), and flatulence (gas). The stomach is usually protected from acid by a mucous layer. However, in some cases, the mucous layer gets eroded due to excess acid production, leading to complications such as acidity, heartburn, and ulcers.
Hydrotalcite+simethicone contains two medications: Hydrotalcite and Simethicone. Hydrotalcite (also known as magnesium-aluminium hydroxycarbonate) belongs to a group of medications called 'antacids,' which work by neutralising excess stomach acid. Simethicone is an antiflatulent agent that works by breaking down gas bubbles in the digestive tract (gut) and lowering their surface tension, making it easier for gas to be released through flatus or belching (burping). Together, Hydrotalcite+simethicone helps reduce acidity, heartburn, and stomach discomfort while also aiding in gas relief.
Take Hydrotalcite+simethicone for as long as your doctor has advised it for you, depending on your medical condition. Hydrotalcite+simethicone is generally safe with no side effects, but it may sometimes cause diarrhoea or vomiting. These side effects will resolve gradually over time without requiring medical attention. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if the side effects persist or worsen.
Before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone, inform your doctor if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or have fructose intolerance. You should take Hydrotalcite+simethicone with caution if you have kidney impairment or if you are on a low-phosphate diet. Also, inform your doctor if you have phenylketonuria (build-up of phenylalanine in the body), high blood sugar, low phosphate levels, or a severe stomach or intestinal condition before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor for advice before using Hydrotalcite+simethicone.
Uses of Hydrotalcite+simethicone
Medicinal Benefits
Hydrotalcite+simethicone contains Hydrotalcite and Simethicone. Hydrotalcite is an antacid that helps neutralise excess stomach acid. Simethicone is an antiflatulent that facilitates the release of accumulated gas in the gut through flatus or belching (burping). Together, Hydrotalcite+simethicone effectively aids in the treatment of stomach and duodenal ulcers, stomach inflammation, heartburn caused by GERD, indigestion, and flatulence.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Hydrotalcite+simethicone
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
Drug Warnings
Do not take Hydrotalcite+simethicone if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or have fructose intolerance. If you have kidney impairment, avoid taking high doses of Hydrotalcite+simethicone for extended periods. Inform your doctor if you are on a low-phosphate diet before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone, as it contains Hydrotalcite, which may lower phosphate levels (hypophosphatemia) and increase the risk of osteomalacia (softening of the bones). Additionally, inform your doctor if you have diabetes (high blood sugar), phenylketonuria (build-up of phenylalanine in the body), or a severe disease affecting the stomach or intestines before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone. Consult your doctor for advice before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Hydrotalcite+simethicone should not be used in children under 12 years of age. Let your doctor know if you are taking any other prescription/non-prescription medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements to avoid potential side effects and interactions.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Hydrotalcite+simethicone may interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, ofloxacin, norfloxacin), medications used to strengthen heart function (digoxin), antiarrhythmics (quinidine), painkillers (aspirin), and thyroid medications (levothyroxine).
Drug-Food Interactions: You should take Hydrotalcite+simethicone with caution if you are on a low-phosphate diet, as it contains Hydrotalcite, which may lower phosphate levels and increase the risk of osteomalacia (softening of the bones). Avoid taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone with acidic beverages (such as wine or fruit juice), as they may lead to an unwanted increase in the absorption of aluminium.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone if you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes (high blood sugar), hypophosphatemia (low phosphate levels), phenylketonuria (build-up of phenylalanine in the body), kidney impairment, or a severe disease affecting the stomach or intestines.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionIt is unknown whether alcohol interacts with Hydrotalcite+simethicone. However, it is advised to avoid alcohol consumption. Alcohol intake may lead to increased production of stomach acid, thereby worsening your symptoms.
Pregnancy
cautionPlease consult your doctor before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Your doctor will prescribe Hydrotalcite+simethicone only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionPlease consult your doctor before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone if you are breastfeeding. Your doctor will prescribe Hydrotalcite+simethicone only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving
safeHydrotalcite+simethicone does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Liver
consult your doctorPlease consult your doctor before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone if you have liver disease.
Kidney
cautionPlease inform your doctor before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone if you have kidney disease. Taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone with kidney impairment may increase the risk of poisoning, as indicated by increased aluminium and magnesium levels in the blood.
Children
unsafeHydrotalcite+simethicone should not be used in children under 12 years of age, as its safety and effectiveness have not been established in this age group.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat smaller meals more often.
- Avoid foods such as high-fat foods, spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolates, pineapple, garlic, tomato, onion, tea, and soda.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Maintain a healthy weight by doing regular exercise.
- Avoid lying down after eating to prevent acid reflux.
- Avoid sitting continuously, as it may trigger acidity. Take a 5-minute break every hour by doing brisk walking or stretching.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothes, as they might increase the pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux.
- Practice relaxation techniques and avoid stress by doing yoga or meditation.
Special Advise
- Wait at least two hours before taking any other medications with Hydrotalcite+simethicone.
- Taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone in high doses over an extended period may increase the risk of poisoning in patients with kidney impairment, as indicated by elevated aluminium and magnesium levels. Therefore, serum aluminium and magnesium levels should be monitored regularly while taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Peptic ulcers: It is a condition where sores develop inside the stomach and the upper small intestine. The most common sign is stomach pain. Typically, peptic ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as naproxen and ibuprofen).
Gastritis: It is an inflammation of the stomach's inner lining. It can be acute (occurring suddenly) or chronic (developing gradually over time). It is often caused by H. pylori infection or excessive alcohol consumption.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): It is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the food pipe. Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, chest pain, indigestion, and difficulty swallowing.
Dyspepsia: Commonly known as indigestion, it is a broad term describing a group of symptoms such as stomach pain or discomfort, a burning sensation, and a feeling of stomach fullness (bloating).
Flatulence (gas): It occurs when gas builds up in the digestive tract (gut). While passing gas is a normal bodily function, certain foods (such as cereals and pulses), medications (such as antibiotics), or digestive problems (such as irritable bowel syndrome) can worsen it.
FAQs
Hydrotalcite+simethicone is an antacid and antiflatulent medication used to treat peptic ulcers (stomach/duodenal ulcers), acute and chronic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), gastroesophageal reflux disease (a condition where stomach acid enters the food pipe, causing heartburn), acid dyspepsia (impaired digestion caused due to excess stomach acid), and flatulence (gas).
Hydrotalcite+simethicone contains two medications: Hydrotalcite and Simethicone. Hydrotalcite belongs to a group of medications called 'antacids,' which work by neutralising excess stomach acid. Simethicone is an antiflatulent agent that works by breaking down gas bubbles in the digestive tract (gut) and lowering their surface tension, making it easier for gas to be released through flatus or belching (burping). Together, Hydrotalcite+simethicone helps reduce acidity, heartburn, and stomach discomfort while also aiding in gas relief.
Hydrotalcite+simethicone is generally safe with no side effects, but it may sometimes cause diarrhoea or vomiting. These side effects will resolve gradually over time without requiring medical attention. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if the side effects persist or worsen.
If you have impaired kidney function, Hydrotalcite+simethicone should be taken with caution. Taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone in high doses over an extended period may increase the risk of poisoning in patients with kidney impairment, as indicated by elevated aluminium and magnesium levels. Therefore, serum aluminium and magnesium levels should be monitored regularly while taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone.
Hydrotalcite+simethicone is typically taken between meals and before bedtime. You may also take Hydrotalcite+simethicone during or after meals to avoid stomach upset. However, always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the appropriate dosage and timing of Hydrotalcite+simethicone.
Please consult your doctor before taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Your doctor will prescribe Hydrotalcite+simethicone only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Hydrotalcite+simethicone should only be taken for a short period during pregnancy to avoid any harmful effects on the baby caused due to the absorption of aluminium.
Do not stop taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone without consulting your doctor, as this may cause unwanted side effects. To treat your condition effectively, continue taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone for as long as your doctor has prescribed it for you.
Do not take Hydrotalcite+simethicone for longer durations unless advised by your doctor. Talk to your doctor if you do not feel better even after taking Hydrotalcite+simethicone for two weeks.
Hydrotalcite+simethicone should not be taken with other medicines, as it may affect their absorption and effectiveness. Therefore, wait at least two hours before taking any other medications with Hydrotalcite+simethicone.
