Carbopil Tablets (Polycarbophil Calcium)

Adult dose

Adults should take 1,250 mg of polycarbophil calcium once orally, 1 to 4 times a day. The recommended starting dose for adults is 1,250 to 2,500 mg daily, with a possible increase up to 5,000 mg. This medication will show results within 12 to 72 hours. Do not take just before bedtime; ensure a minimum of 1 hour for digestion before going to bed.

Child dose

Children aged 6 to 12 years should take 625 mg of polycarbophil calcium once orally, 1 to 3 times a day. For children under 6 years, consult a doctor.

This medication should not be used in certain patients. For example, it should not be administered to individuals with allergies to this drug or its ingredients, those with unexplained rectal bleeding, those in severe dehydration, or those with conditions that make swallowing difficult. Additionally, individuals who must lie down or are at risk of reflux, those with impaired colonic or bowel function, or those with acute abdominal diseases or bowel obstructions may experience worsening symptoms if this drug is used and should be avoided. This drug is also unsuitable for patients with hypercalcemia, kidney stones, or severe renal failure. It should also be avoided in cases of severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. Since this drug contains calcium, patients who need to restrict calcium intake or are taking active form vitamin D preparations should use it cautiously. Caution is also needed if taking heart medications known as cardiac glycosides due to potential drug interactions. Patients with a history of gastric resection or suspected low gastric acid, those undergoing dialysis, or patients with mild renal failure should also be administered this medication with care. Those allergic to the caramel components of this drug should be cautious as well. When taking this medication, allergic reactions such as rashes or itching may occur, so if any abnormal symptoms appear, use should be immediately discontinued. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, as well as elevated liver function tests, headaches, and swelling, have also been reported as side effects. If taken without sufficient water, there is a risk of the medication getting stuck in the throat or esophagus, leading to choking, so it is essential to take it with water. If chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or breathing difficulties occur after taking this medication, consult a doctor or pharmacist immediately. This medication helps alleviate symptoms, so if symptoms do not improve after more than 7 days of use, consult a professional. If used for more than 3 months, closely monitor for any adverse reactions. When taking other medications, it is advisable to maintain a minimum interval of 2 hours to avoid absorption interference with this drug. Caution is especially needed when used with tetracycline or quinolone antibiotics, active form vitamin D preparations, calcium supplements, cardiac glycosides, or acid secretion inhibitors. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should only use this drug when the benefits of therapy outweigh the risks, and safety for children has not been adequately established. Elderly patients may require dosage adjustments due to reduced kidney function and the increased risk of hypercalcemia. Finally, this medication should be kept out of the reach of children and stored in its original container in a cool, dry place. Transferring it to another container may compromise its quality or lead to misuse.

Serious side effects

• Severe abdominal pain
• chest pain
• breathing difficulties
• edema

Mild side effects

• Rash
• itching
• leukopenia
• nausea
• vomiting
• dry mouth
• abdominal distension
• diarrhea
• constipation
• abdominal pain

This medication should be stored in a tightly closed container to prevent air exposure and should preferably be kept at room temperature between 1 and 30 degrees Celsius. Storing it this way helps maintain its effectiveness and prevents degradation.

Appearance

Light-colored film-coated tablet with dark brown speckles

Package unit

30 tablets/bottle, 500 tablets/bottle