Products
Carmenthin and Gaspan were approved in many countries in 2019 in the form of enteric-coated soft capsules. In Germany, the drug has been on the market for some time.
Structure and properties
The capsules contain two essential oils, peppermint oil and caraway oil. This combination is also known as menthacarin. The enteric-coated capsules release the contents only in the alkaline environment of the intestine. This leads to less irritation of the stomach.
Effects
The essential oils (ATC A03A) have analgesic, antispasmodic, motility inhibiting, and carminative properties, among others.
Indications
- Flatulence, feeling of pressure and fullness in the abdomen with mild cramps (gaspan).
- Functional dyspepsia with epigastric pain, mild cramps, flatulence and bloating (Carmenthine).
Dosage
According to the professional information. Capsules are taken twice daily at least 30 minutes before a meal, preferably in the morning and at noon.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Liver disease, gallstones, inflammatory diseases of the bile duct, or other diseases of the bile ducts
- Achlorhydria
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Concomitant use with antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, or proton pump inhibitors may result in premature release of capsule contents. A time interval of at least one hour is recommended.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as belching, burning of the stomach, nausea, vomiting, and rectal itching. Allergic reactions are possible.
