Colofac (Mebeverine)

Colofac (mebeverine hydrochloride) is a medicine used to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It works by relaxing the muscles of the intestine, which helps reduce cramps, pain, and spasms. By acting directly on the gut wall, mebeverine helps manage discomfort without disrupting normal bowel movements. This effect helps treat symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating, while causing fewer side effects than some other antispasmodic medicines.

Directions

The standard dosage is 1 tablet (135 mg) taken 3 times daily, preferably 20 minutes before meals. Swallow the tablets whole with water. Do not chew or crush them. Treatment duration varies depending on symptom relief, but many people can take the medication for extended periods if needed.

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it's nearly time for the next dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. Take the medicine at the same time each day.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Colofac is mebeverine.

Cautions

• Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
  • Any existing health conditions
  • Any allergies
  • A list of all medications currently being taken
• Colofac should be used with caution in people who have certain heart conditions, such as heart rhythm problems, heart block, angina, or severe heart disease, as it may worsen these problems.
• This medication contains lactose and sucrose, so it should not be used by people with rare inherited problems like lactose intolerance, galactose intolerance, fructose intolerance, or glucose-galactose malabsorption.
• People with advanced liver disease may need extra monitoring, especially if they develop stomach symptoms or yellowing of the skin or eyes, which could suggest liver sensitivity.
• Colofac should also be used with caution in people with advanced kidney disease, since the body may have more trouble clearing the medication.
• There is limited information on the safety of Colofac in older adults and children, so use in these groups should be guided by a healthcare provider.
• Colofac is not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy, and later use during pregnancy should be based on whether the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Small amounts of the medication can pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding is generally not recommended unless a healthcare provider decides the benefits are greater than the potential risks.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Serious allergy to mebeverine
• Hypersensitivity reactions to any inactive ingredients in the drug

Side Effects

Common side effects of Colofac include:

• Indigestion or heartburn
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite (anorexia)
• General feelings of malaise
• Slower pulse rate

These effects are generally uncommon and usually mild when they do occur. Most people tolerate Colofac well, and side effects often improve as treatment continues. Let a healthcare provider know if any symptoms are persistent or bothersome.

Rare but more serious reactions can occur, mainly related to allergic responses. These may include skin reactions such as hives or rash, swelling of the face or lips (angioedema), or more severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or a sudden widespread rash.