Kaopectate: Benefits, Dosage and Side Effects

Kaopectate is used for treating diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, gas or upset in the stomach. It works by helping to slow down the growth of bacteria that may cause diarrhea.

This product should not be used for self-treatment with diarrhea if you also have fever or blood/mucus in your stools. These may be signs of a serious health condition. If you have these symptoms, consult your doctor promptly for proper assessment and treatment. Avoid using the medication for self-treating ulcers.

Kaopectate Tablet Uses

This medicine is being used to treat occasional stomach upset, heartburn, and nausea. It is also used to treat diarrhea and help prevent diarrhea in travellers.

It works by helping to slow down the growth of bacteria that may cause diarrhea. This product should not be used for self-treatment with diarrhea if you also have fever or blood/mucus in your stools.

These may be signs of serious health conditions. Check with your doctor promptly for proper evaluation and treatment if you have these symptoms.

This medicine is used by your doctor to treat stomach ulcers caused by certain bacteria (Helicobacter pylori). Do not use this medicine to treat ulcers of your own. Bismuth's subsalicylate is a salicylate.

Conditions Kaopectate Used to Treat

• Acute diarrhea
• Nausea, gas, and indigestion
• Heartburn
• Upset stomach due to overindulgence in food or drink
• Diarrhea relief
• Upset stomach
• Nausea and indigestion
• Traveler's diarrhea

Quick Highlight of Its Benefits

• Fast relief from diarrhea and nausea
• Helps soothe the stomach lining
• Can reduce bloating, gas, and cramping

How Does Kaopectate Work?

Kaopectate's active ingredient bismuth subsalicylate works by

• Reducing inflammation in the stomach and intestines
• Slowing down fluid secretion into the bowel
• Binding toxins and bacteria
• Coating the stomach lining to relieve irritation

Think of it as a gentle stomach "shield" that also tackles infection and excess fluid.

Dosage

Typical Dosage Instructions (Follow Label or Doctor's Advice):

Adults and children over 12:

• 30 mL (2 tablespoons) or 2 tablets every 30 to 60 minutes, as needed
• Do not exceed 8 doses in 24 hours

Children under 12: Use only under doctor's advice

• Shake liquid well before use. Use provided measuring cup.

Missed Dose

Missing one or two-dose of Kaopectate won't show any effect on your body. The skipped dose causes no problem. But with some medication, it won't work if you don't take the dosage on time.

If you miss a dose some sudden chemical change may affect your body. In some cases, your doctor would advise you to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed the dose.

Overdose

Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Kaopectate tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body's functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.

Kaopectate Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Kaopectate are:

• Constipation
• Black tongue
• Dark-coloured stools

Some of the serious side effects of KaopectateSide are:

• Changes in behaviour
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Hearing loss
• Diarrhea
• Worsened Stomach Symptoms

If you have any of these serious symptoms immediately contact your doctor for further assistance. In any case, due to Kaopectate if you get any kind of reactions in your body try avoiding it.

A doctor advised you to take the medicines by seeing your problems and the benefits of this medicine are greater than the side effects. Majority of the people who use this medicine don't show any side effects. Get medical help immediately if you get any serious Kaopectate side effects.

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking Kaopectate talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. The product may contain some inactive ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction or some other serious problems.

Before using the medication talk with your doctor if you are having any medical history such as:

• Bleeding problems
• Bloody, black or tarry stools

Who Should Avoid This Medicine:

• People allergic to aspirin or salicylates
• Children or teenagers recovering from flu or chickenpox (risk of Reye's syndrome)
• Those with bleeding disorders

Use With Caution In:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with kidney disease or gout
• Concurrent aspirin or anticoagulant users

How to take Kaopectate?

Take the medication by mouth, usually as needed, as directed by the product package or as directed by your doctor. The dose is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medicine more often than directed. Do not take more of this medicine than is recommended for your age. There are many different brands and forms of bismuth subsalicylate available. If you are using chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow it. If you are using the liquid form of this medicine, shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/cup. Do not use a household spoon because you may not have the correct dose.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Kaopectate?

• Generally safe for adults and children over 12
• Use in younger children only under medical supervision

Alcohol or Food Interactions

Alcohol:

• May worsen stomach irritation
• Avoid heavy alcohol use while taking Kaopectate

Food:

• No major interactions
• Best taken after meals for indigestion relief

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of and monitor any possible drug interactions. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription and non-prescription/herbal products that you may use, in particular: valproic acid, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

May Interact With:

• Aspirin or NSAIDs - increased risk of salicylate overload
• Blood thinners (warfarin) - increased bleeding risk
• Diabetes medications - altered blood sugar levels
• Tetracycline antibiotics - reduced absorption

Separate use by at least 2 hours from other medications when possible

Storage

Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. The exposure of medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children's reach.

Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).

Before taking Kaopectate consult your Doctor. In case if you face any problems or get any side effects after taking Kaopectate rush immediately to your nearby hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment. Carry your medications always in your bag while travelling to avoid any immediate emergencies. Follow your prescription and follow your Doctor advice whenever you take Kaopectate.

What Happens If Not Stored Properly?

• May lose effectiveness or change color/consistency
• Discard if expired or if the liquid appears separated or discolored

Kaopectate vs Imodium

References