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ALIMENTARY TRACT AND METABOLISM › ANTIDIARRHEALS, INTESTINAL ANTIINFLAMMATORY/ANTIINFECTIVE AGENTS › INTESTINAL ADSORBENTS › Other intestinal adsorbents
attapulgite
A07BC04
Forms & Strengths
- Oral tablet: 600 mg, 750 mg
- Oral suspension: 750 mg/15 mL, 600 mg/15 mL
Adult Dosing
- Acute diarrhea: 1.2 to 1.5 g after each loose bowel movement
- Maximum daily dose: 9 g per 24 hours
- Duration: Discontinue if symptoms persist beyond 2 days
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 6 to 12 years: 600 to 750 mg after each loose stool; max 4.2 to 4.5 g/day
- Children 3 to 6 years: 300 mg after each loose stool; max 2.25 g/day
- Children under 3 years: Not recommended unless directed by a physician
Indications
- Symptomatic relief of acute, non-specific diarrhea
- Control of associated cramping and gastrointestinal discomfort
Mechanism of Action
- Acts as an adsorbent physical agent in the gastrointestinal tract
- Binds to bacterial toxins, microorganisms, and fluid to decrease stool consistency and frequency
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to attapulgite or components
- Diarrhea associated with high fever or invasive bacterial infections
- Presence of intestinal obstruction or perforation
Adverse Reactions
- Constipation (especially with high doses)
- Abdominal distension or discomfort
- Nausea
Drug Interactions
- Decreases gastrointestinal absorption of concurrently administered oral medications (e.g., digoxin, clindamycin, tetracyclines)
- Stagger administration of other oral drugs by at least 2 to 3 hours before or after attapulgite
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use