What it is used for
- Emergency treatment of some poisonings and overdoses, in hospital or on medical advice
- Relieving wind (gas) and bloating; the evidence for benefit is limited
How it is used
- For poisoning: call emergency services or a poison centre first, and give it only on their advice
- Capsules and tablets are swallowed with water; follow the leaflet and ask your pharmacist
- Shake the suspension well before use
- Leave a gap of a few hours between it and any other medicines
Possible side effects
- Black stools, which is harmless
- Constipation
- Nausea or vomiting, especially with the large amounts used for poisoning
Who should not use it
- Do not use it if you are allergic to this medicine or any ingredient in the product
- A blocked bowel
- It does not help in poisoning with corrosive acids or alkalis, petroleum products, alcohol, iron or lithium
Before and while using it
- Do not give it at home to someone who is drowsy or unconscious; call an ambulance
- It reduces the absorption of other medicines, including the contraceptive pill; keep them apart
- See a doctor if bloating continues or comes with severe pain, blood in the stool or weight loss
Medicine interactions
- It reduces the absorption of many medicines taken by mouth, including contraceptive pills; tell your pharmacist about all your medicines
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- It is not absorbed into the body and is usually considered suitable in pregnancy and breastfeeding; ask your pharmacist before regular use
How to store it
- Store tightly closed at room temperature away from moisture, out of the sight and reach of children.
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.