Alverine Citrate with Simeticone

How it works

Alverine acts directly on intestinal smooth muscle to relieve spasm, while simeticone lowers the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gut to reduce trapped wind and bloating.

Prescribing in practice

• It should not be used where paralytic ileus or intestinal obstruction is suspected, as relieving smooth-muscle tone could be harmful in these situations.
• Reassess any patient whose abdominal symptoms change in character or who develops alarm features, since IBS remains a diagnosis of exclusion.
• It is intended for functional symptom relief and is generally well tolerated, but discontinue if hypersensitivity occurs.

Monitoring

No specific laboratory monitoring is required; review symptom control and reconsider the diagnosis if symptoms persist or escalate.

Counselling the patient

• Take to relieve cramping abdominal pain and bloating associated with IBS.
• Seek review if you notice bleeding, weight loss, or a persistent change in bowel habit.
• Stop and seek advice if you develop a rash or other allergic reaction.

Evidence & guidelines

NICE guidance on irritable bowel syndrome supports antispasmodics for abdominal pain and spasm, alongside dietary and lifestyle measures.