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Simethicone Drops - Oral

Pronunciation: sye-METH-i-kone

Common Brand Name(s): Ovol

Important: How To Use This Information

This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

Uses

This product is used to relieve symptoms of extra gas caused by air swallowing or certain foods/infant formulas. Simethicone helps break up gas bubbles in the gut.

Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients. Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Giving the wrong product could harm your child.

How To Use

Follow all directions on the product package. If the doctor has prescribed this medication, give it as directed. If you have any questions, ask the doctor or pharmacist.

Give this product by mouth, usually as needed after meals and at bedtime. The dosage is based on your child's age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase the dose or give this product more often than directed. Do not give more of this product than recommended for your child's age.

Shake the container well before each use. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/dropper. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Use the special measuring device/dropper to give the liquid by mouth. Try to give it slowly, aiming for the side of the inside cheek to prevent spitting or choking. The dosage may also be added to 1 ounce (30 milliliters) of cool water, infant formula, or juice. Mix well and give the liquid right away. If you are using a dropper to give this medication, rinse it well after each use.

If your child's condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think your child may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Simethicone usually has no side effects. If your child has any unusual effects, contact the doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If the doctor has directed you to give this medication, remember that the doctor has judged that the benefit to your child is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

  • rash
  • itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
  • severe dizziness
  • trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact the doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call the doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call the doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before giving simethicone, tell the doctor or pharmacist if your child is allergic to it; or if your child has any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to the pharmacist for more details.

If your child has any health problems, consult the doctor or pharmacist before giving this product.

Before having surgery, tell the doctor or dentist about all the products your child is using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This form of simethicone is not usually used by adults. It is unlikely to be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Consult the doctor if you have any questions about this product.

Drug Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Simethicone can decrease the absorption of thyroid medications (such as levothyroxine). If your child takes thyroid medication, give it at least 4 hours before or after products that contain simethicone.

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Notes

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Missed Dose

If your child is taking this product on a regular schedule and misses a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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