Simethicone (Simeticone)
Simethicone is a locally acting antifoaming agent used for gastrointestinal gas and certain frothy-bloat products.
Group
Antifoaming agent
Mechanism of Action
Reduces the surface tension of gas bubbles, allowing foam to coalesce and gas to be expelled.
Dose Rates
Cattle
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frothy bloat | 1000 mg/animal | PO | Every 12 h | Gastina combination: 100 mL contains simethicone 1000 mg plus dill oil 500 mg. Continue only with reassessment until signs resolve. |
Indications
- Frothy bloat
- Gastrointestinal gas
Contraindications
- Do not delay decompression for life-threatening bloat or suspected gastric dilatation-volvulus.
Interactions
- No established veterinary drug interactions for simethicone alone; combination oils can change product effects.
Adverse effects
- Adverse effects are uncommon; hypersensitivity to a formulation is possible.
Toxicity
Systemic toxicity is unlikely because absorption is low; investigate the cause of persistent distension.
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gastina anti-bloat liquid 50 mg simethicone plus 25 mg dill oil per 5 mL. This component calculation is only for the stated Gastina regimen. | Oral Liquid | simethicone 50 mg / 5 mL + dill oil 25 mg / 5 mL | PO |
Monitoring and Administration
Distinguish frothy bloat from free-gas obstruction and GDV. Severe respiratory compromise needs immediate decompression and cause-directed treatment.
Use the exact anti-bloat product and its full ingredient list; administration by stomach tube requires confirmation of tube placement.