This Is How Long It Takes For Gas-X To Start Working

Suppose you're dealing with the uncomfortable feeling of gas in your belly. In that case, you're likely to be concerned about the onset of action for gas-relieving remedies like Gas-X, also known as simethicone. The National Library of Medicine's National Center for Biotechnology Information defines simethicone as a silicon-based surfactant that helps relieve flatulence, functional gastric bloating, and postoperative gas pains by eliminating gastrointestinal gas bubbles. According to the National Health Service (NHS), simethicone unites small glass bubbles in the gut to form bigger ones that make gas in the body leave easily via burping or farting.

As the main ingredient in Gas-X, simethicone is an oral medication and comes in various forms, including regular tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, and liquid (via DrugBank). It's available over the counter, which means there are no limits to access for Gas-X. However, it's advisable to consult a doctor before using the medication for your stomach-related conditions. If you're wondering how long it takes for Gas-X to start working, let's unpack more details about the drug, including the various side effects.

According to DrugBank, simethicone is absorbed systemically and not metabolized by the body. The NHS says that after taking simethicone, it usually takes about 30 minutes to feel relief from the painful symptoms of gas in the stomach. The liquid form should be shaken well before use, and doses should be measured with a dropper or syringe, rather than a kitchen teaspoon. On the other hand, tablets, capsules, and gel capsules must be swallowed whole without chewing, unless a doctor advises otherwise, per the NHS.

Generally speaking, involving your doctor in your simethicone therapy is crucial, even though the drug is easily accessible over the counter. Your doctor might prescribe a dose for you based on your medical condition or history. This means Gas-X doses may vary from one person to another. As a general guide, the Mayo Clinic states that adults and teenagers dealing with gas can take 60 milligrams to 15 milligrams of Gas-X capsules, preferably after meals and before sleep. Taking 40 milligrams to 95 milligrams 4 times daily can suffice for adults and teenagers if the Gas-X is in a suspension form. Simethicone is also safe for use in children. A 2022 study published in the journal StatPearls notes that children between the ages of 2 and 12 can take 40 milligrams orally 4 times daily, with doctor approval.

While Gas-X is safe for use across multiple age brackets, it's always best practice to disclose your medical history and allergies to your doctor before using the drug. Despite its numerous benefits, Gas-X can interact with other medications or underlying conditions, leading to various side effects. According to WebMD, simethicone can decrease the absorption of thyroid medications. The source advises taking thyroid medications 4 hours before or after taking simethicone.

Drugs.com notes that most simethicone users barely experience critical side effects. However, symptoms like hives, breathing difficulties, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat can be linked to an allergic reaction. Such side effects require immediate medical attention.

According to a 2016 study published in the journal Side Effects of Drugs Annual, one patient had taken a combination of drugs and supplements, including simethicone, which caused anaphylaxis shock. Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs seconds after exposure to an allergen (via Mayo Clinic). This allergic reaction often requires immediate treatment, as it is life-threatening, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.