Important Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
ACIDIPAN Oral Suspension (180 ml)
Manufacturer: WESTERN PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES
Category: Antacid & Anti-gas Agent
Active Ingredients per 5 ml:
- Aluminium Hydroxide
- Magnesium Hydroxide
- Simethicone
Summary
ACIDIPAN is a triple-action oral suspension designed to relieve symptoms of excess stomach acid and gas. It combines two antacids, Aluminium Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide, to neutralize stomach acid, with Simethicone to break down gas bubbles, providing comprehensive relief from heartburn, bloating, and indigestion.
Mechanism of Action
- Aluminium Hydroxide: Neutralizes gastric acid and can also bind to bile acids. Tends to be constipating.
- Magnesium Hydroxide: A potent and fast-acting antacid that also has a mild laxative effect, balancing the constipating effect of aluminium.
- Simethicone: A defoaming agent that reduces the surface tension of gas bubbles, allowing them to be expelled more easily and relieving bloating and pressure.
Indications
For the symptomatic relief of:
- Heartburn and acid indigestion.
- Flatulence, bloating, and gas pressure.
- As an adjunctive treatment for gastritis, peptic ulcers, or GERD.
Dosage and Administration
Important: Shake the bottle well before each use. Always follow the dosage instructions provided on the package or by your physician.
- The usual adult dose is 5 to 10 ml (1-2 teaspoonfuls), taken between meals and at bedtime, or as needed for symptoms.
Contraindications
Do not use this medication if you have:
- Known hypersensitivity to any of its components.
- Severe renal insufficiency (kidney failure).
- Hypophosphatemia (low phosphate levels in the blood).
- Should not be given to children under 6 years of age unless directed by a physician.
Warnings and Precautions
- Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with any degree of kidney disease due to the risk of magnesium and aluminum accumulation.
- Long-Term Use: Do not use for more than two weeks continuously without consulting a doctor, as it may mask a more serious condition or lead to electrolyte imbalances.
Drug Interactions
Antacids can significantly reduce the absorption of many other drugs. To avoid this, take other medications at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking Acidipan. This is especially important for:
- Antibiotics (e.g., Tetracyclines, Ciprofloxacin).
- Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine).
- Iron supplements.
- Certain heart medications (e.g., Digoxin).
Possible Side Effects
- Common: A balanced effect on the bowel (constipation from aluminum vs. diarrhea from magnesium), chalky taste.
- Rare/Serious (with prolonged high-dose use): Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low phosphate, high magnesium), kidney burden in patients with renal impairment.
Key Patient Advice
- Shake the bottle vigorously before pouring each dose.
- Do not take other medications at the same time; separate doses by at least 2 hours.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use.
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
- Keep out of the reach of children.