simethicone

[sahy-meth-i-kohn]

noun

Pharmacology.

1. an active ingredient in many antacid preparations that causes small mucus-entrapped air bubbles in the intestines to coalesce into larger bubbles that are more easily passed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of simethicone¹

si(lica) + meth(yl) + (sil)icone

Example Sentences

Be cautious about: OTC anti-gas products that contain simethicone, such as Gas-X.

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Dr. Michael Shaw, a gastroenterologist and a co-author of the study, says halting the use of simethicone products would hinder doctors’ ability to accurately treat patients with endoscopy.

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Further analysis revealed the fluid contained simethicone, the main ingredient in over-the-counter anti-gas medications available at grocery stores and pharmacies.

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“The finding of fluid containing simethicone suggests we have more serious problems. It could explain why we are having more trouble getting these scopes clean.”

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The formulations contain the active ingredient simethicone, which is supposed to break up gas bubbles into smaller bubbles; however, it's not been proven to consistently provide relief to infants.

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