Digene (mint Flavour) Sugar Free Gel 450 Ml

DIGENE (Mint Flavour) Sugar Free Gel 450 ml is an antacid and anti-gas formulation manufactured by Abbott India Limited, designed to provide rapid and effective relief from various digestive discomforts.

Name

• Brand Name: DIGENE (Mint Flavour) Sugar Free Gel
• Common Name: Antacid Antigas Gel

Composition

Each 10 ml (approximately 2 teaspoonfuls) of Digene Mint Flavour Sugar Free Gel contains:

• Magnesium Hydroxide I.P. (added as paste) - 185 mg
• Simethicone I.P. - 50 mg
• Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose I.P. - 100 mg
• Dried Aluminum Hydroxide Gel I.P. (added as paste) - 830 mg

Uses

Digene Gel is primarily used for the quick and effective relief of:

• Acidity and heartburn
• Gas, bloating, and belching
• Indigestion and stomach upset
• It also helps manage conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcer, oesophagitis, and other dyspeptic conditions associated with hyperacidity. The gel neutralizes excess stomach acid and protects the stomach lining.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults: 2 teaspoonfuls (10 ml) after meals and at bedtime, or as advised by a healthcare professional.
• Children: Dosage should be advised by a primary physician.
• Shake the bottle well before use.

Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, some common side effects may include:

• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness
• Diarrhea

Serious but rare side effects can include:

• Confusion
• Changes in vision
• Bloody or black stool
• Allergic reactions

If side effects persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Precautions

• Medical Conditions: Individuals with existing heart or kidney conditions, low phosphate levels, or high magnesium levels should consult a doctor before taking Digene Gel.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before consuming this medicine.
• Children: Digene Gel should be given to children under 12 years only after consulting a doctor, as safety has not been established for this age group.
• Drug Interactions: Digene may interfere with certain medicines, including:
  • Aspirin
  • Antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, oxytetracycline, levofloxacin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin)
  • Anti-asthmatic medicines (e.g., albuterol, ipratropium)
  • Anti-diabetic medicines (e.g., glipizide)
  • Vitamins (e.g., ascorbic acid, cholecalciferol, ergocalciferol)
• Alcohol and Citrates: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase acidity and heartburn. Avoid consumption of citrates while taking Digene as it can increase aluminum levels.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage. If symptoms persist after a single dose, consult a doctor.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place.
• Keep away from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about DIGENE (MINT FLAVOUR) SUGAR FREE GEL 450 ML:

What is Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel used for?

Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel is used for quick and effective relief from acidity, heartburn, indigestion, and gas troubles such as bloating and belching. It also helps manage conditions like peptic ulcer, gastritis, and oesophagitis associated with hyperacidity.

How does Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel work?

This gel works by neutralizing excess stomach acid and protecting the stomach lining from irritation. It contains active ingredients like magnesium hydroxide and dried aluminum hydroxide gel, which act as antacids. Simethicone, an anti-flatulent, helps break down gas bubbles in the digestive tract, reducing bloating and belching. Sodium carboxymethylcellulose also contributes to reducing overall acid levels.

What is the usual dosage of Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel?

For adults, the recommended dosage is 2 teaspoonfuls (10 ml) after meals or at bedtime, or as advised by a healthcare professional. For children, the dosage should be advised by their primary physician. The bottle should be shaken well before use.

What are the possible side effects of Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel?

While generally safe, some possible side effects include weakness, appetite loss, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. In rare cases, more severe side effects like confusion, changes in vision, bloody or black stool, or allergic reactions have been reported. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, consult a doctor immediately.

Is Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before consuming this medicine.

Can Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel be taken with other medications?

Digene can interact with several medications, including certain antibiotics (like doxycycline, oxytetracycline, levofloxacin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin), aspirin, anti-asthmatic medicines (like albuterol and ipratropium), anti-diabetic medicines (like glipizide), and certain vitamins (like ascorbic acid, cholecalciferol, ergocalciferol). It can also interfere with dolutegravir and gefitinib, reducing their effectiveness, and interactions with citrates, calcium citrate, and sodium citrate can increase aluminum levels. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Often, a gap of 2-3 hours between taking Digene and other medications may be recommended.

What precautions should be taken while using Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel?

Consult a doctor before taking this medicine if you have existing heart or kidney conditions, low phosphate levels, high magnesium levels, stomach pain, or a blocked bowel. Avoid consuming alcohol while using Digene, as it can increase stomach acid production, leading to more acidity and heartburn. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Children below 12 years of age should only be given Digene after consulting a doctor.

What happens if a dose of Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel be stored?

Digene Mint Flavour Sugar-Free Gel should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Store it at a temperature not exceeding 30°C.