Gastropulgite®

Know the basics

What is Gastropulgite® used for?

Gastropulgite® is commonly used for symptomatic treatment of pain experienced during oeso gastroduodenal disorder and gastroesophageal reflux.

How should I take Gastropulgite®?

1 sachet daily into a ½ glass of water, when pain experienced or after meals in case of gastroesophageal reflux.

How do I store Gastropulgite®?

Gastropulgite® is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store Gastropulgite® in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of Gastropulgite® that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush Gastropulgite® down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Know the precautions & warnings

What should I know before using Gastropulgite®?

Consult your doctor, if:

• You are allergic to any ingredient in attapulgite you have a fever;
• You have blood or mucus in your stool you are taking a citrate salt (found in some calcium supplements, antacids, and laxatives).

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

In clinical studies, there are no malformation or foetotoxic effects when pregnant women use Gastropulgite®.

Consequently, antacids may be prescribed during pregnancy if necessary.

Know the side effects

What side effects can occur from Gastropulgite®?

These side effects are possible, but do not always occur:

• Constipation;
• Decreased bowel motility;
• Dehydration;
• Hemorrhoids;
• Fissures;
• Intestinal obstruction.

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side-effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Know the interactions

What drugs may interact with Gastropulgite®?

Gastropulgite® may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Besides, Gastropulgite®:

• Increase in plasma levels of quinidine and risk of overdose;
• Increased renal excretion of salicylates by alkalization of urine.

Antacids (aluminium, calcium and magnesium salts) interact with certain other medications taken orally. A reduction in the digestive absorption of medications taken concomitantly has been observed.

Where possible, Gastropulgite® should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the following:

• Antibacterials (penicillamine, ethambutol, isoniazid, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, lincosamides);
• H2-antihistamines;
• Beta blockers: atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol;
• Glucocorticoids (prednisolone and dexamethasone);
• Others: chloroquine, diflunisal, digoxin (oral route); biphosphonates (oral route); sodium fluoride; etc.

Does food or alcohol interact with Gastropulgite®?

Gastropulgite® may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Gastropulgite®?

Gastropulgite® may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

• Hypersensitivity to activated attapulgite of Mormoiron and co-dried aluminium hydroxide-magnesium carbonate gel, or to any of the excipients of Gastropulgite®;
• Severe renal insufficiency;
• Stenotic digestive tract.

Understand the dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.

What is the dose of Gastropulgite® for an adult?

1 sachet daily into a ½ glass of water, when pain experienced or after meals in case of gastroesophageal reflux.

It is not normally recommended to exceed 6 sachets/day.

What is the dose of Gastropulgite® for a child?

1/3-1 sachet daily depends on their age.

How is Gastropulgite® available?

Gastropulgite® is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Dried Gel 500 mg.

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services (115) or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Gastropulgite®, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.