Why is this medication prescribed?

Mylicon is an over-the-counter medication used to relieve symptoms of gas in infants and young children. It contains simethicone, which is an anti-foaming agent that helps break up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, making it easier for the gas to be passed. Mylicon is commonly prescribed or recommended by healthcare providers for infants and young children who experience excessive gas, bloating, and discomfort due to swallowed air during feeding or gas produced during digestion.

How should this medicine be used?

• Follow the Instructions: Always follow the dosage and administration instructions provided on the product’s packaging or as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosing may vary based on the child’s age and weight.
• Liquid Drops: Mylicon usually comes in liquid drop form. Shake the bottle well before use.
• Administration: You can administer the drops directly into the infant’s mouth or mix them with formula or expressed breast milk. Check the product label for specific instructions on mixing with liquids.
• Dosage: The typical recommended dosage for infants is usually given before each feeding or when symptoms of gas are present. Again, the specific dosage will depend on the child’s age and weight.
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before giving any medication, including over-the-counter products like Mylicon, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if your child has any underlying medical conditions or if you have any concerns about your child’s health.

Please note that medication guidelines and recommendations may change over time, so it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or follow the most recent information available on the product packaging or from trusted medical sources.

Other uses for this medicine

Mylicon (simethicone) is primarily used to relieve symptoms of gas in infants and young children. However, it is worth noting that simethicone, the active ingredient in Mylicon, is also used in various over-the-counter gas-relief products for adults.

In addition to its use for gas relief in infants and children, some adults may use simethicone-containing products to alleviate symptoms of bloating, gas, and discomfort caused by excess gas in the digestive system. However, it’s essential to follow the specific dosing instructions and guidelines provided on the product’s packaging or as directed by a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions, here are some important points to consider:

• Consult with a Healthcare Professional: Before giving Mylicon or any simethicone-containing product to an infant, child, or adult, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if there are any pre-existing medical conditions or if the individual is taking other medications. A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice and ensure the medication is safe and appropriate for use.
• Dosage and Administration: Always follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions provided on the product’s packaging or as advised by a healthcare professional. Do not exceed the recommended dose unless directed by a doctor.
• Allergies and Sensitivities: If the individual has a known allergy or sensitivity to simethicone or any other ingredients in the product, it should be avoided. It’s essential to read the product label for a list of ingredients and potential allergens.
• Underlying Conditions: If the individual has a history of gastrointestinal disorders, ongoing digestive issues, or any other medical conditions, it’s essential to inform the healthcare provider before using Mylicon.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If a pregnant or breastfeeding woman is considering using Mylicon or any simethicone product, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine its safety during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
• Side Effects: While simethicone is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects such as mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. If any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention if necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Simethicone is not known to interact with other medications significantly. However, it’s always wise to inform the healthcare provider of all the medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements) being taken to avoid any potential interactions.

Please remember that medication guidelines and information may change over time. It is recommend checking with a healthcare professional or referring to more recent sources for the latest information and precautions regarding Mylicon or any other medications.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• There are generally no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Mylicon. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet for your child to prevent excessive gas and digestive discomfort.
• If you are breastfeeding, you may want to pay attention to your own diet, as some foods can potentially cause gas in your baby. Common culprits include beans, broccoli, cabbage, onions, and spicy foods. If you suspect a particular food is causing gas in your child, consult with a healthcare professional or a pediatrician.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you forget to give your child a dose of Mylicon, don’t double up on the medication to make up for the missed dose. Simply resume the regular dosing schedule as prescribed or as directed on the product’s packaging.
• If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your pediatrician or a healthcare professional.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Mylicon (simethicone) is generally considered safe and well-tolerated when used as directed. It is an over-the-counter medication used to relieve symptoms of gas in infants and young children. Simethicone works locally in the gastrointestinal tract and is not absorbed into the bloodstream, which reduces the likelihood of systemic side effects.

Side effects with Mylicon are rare, but like any medication, it may cause adverse reactions in some individuals. Potential side effects of Mylicon may include:

• Mild Gastrointestinal Discomfort: In some cases, individuals may experience mild stomach discomfort, nausea, or bloating. However, these effects are generally uncommon and not severe.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to simethicone or other ingredients in the product. Allergic reactions may manifest as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If any signs of an allergic reaction occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

It’s essential to note that the side effects mentioned above are not exhaustive, and individual responses to medication can vary. Most people using Mylicon experience no or minimal side effects.

If you have any concerns about potential side effects or observe any unusual reactions while using Mylicon, it’s crucial to discontinue use and seek medical advice promptly. Additionally, if your child experiences any unexpected symptoms after taking Mylicon, consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Store Mylicon or any simethicone-containing product according to the instructions on the product’s packaging. Typically, it should be kept at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
• Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal:

• Follow any specific disposal instructions provided on the product’s packaging or the accompanying patient information leaflet.
• If no specific instructions are given, you can usually dispose of Mylicon by following local guidelines for the disposal of over-the-counter medications. This may include using drug take-back programs or disposing of the medication in household trash after mixing it with an undesirable substance (e.g., coffee grounds, cat litter) to deter accidental ingestion by animals or people.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In the case of a suspected overdose or accidental ingestion of Mylicon, contact your local poison control center or seek immediate medical attention. In the United States, you can reach the Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222.
• Be prepared to provide details about the medication, the person affected (age, weight), and the amount ingested.

What other information should I know

• Mylicon is intended for oral use and should not be used for other purposes or applied topically.
• Always follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions provided on the product’s packaging or as advised by a healthcare professional.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements) the individual is taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• If symptoms persist or worsen despite using Mylicon, seek medical advice to rule out any underlying conditions.
• Do not use Mylicon as a substitute for seeking appropriate medical attention if the individual is experiencing severe or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms.

As always, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you have specific questions about the storage, disposal, usage, or safety considerations of Mylicon or any other medications. Additionally, please note that medication guidelines and information may change over time, so referring to the most recent sources for up-to-date information is recommended.