For parents grappling with a fussy, gassy infant, a familiar name often recommended is Mylicon. The packaging clearly states it offers infant gas relief, but a closer look at the active ingredients label reveals a less familiar term: simethicone. This can be confusing for consumers. In essence, Mylicon is a brand name for a product that contains simethicone, much like how Tylenol is a brand name for acetaminophen. Understanding this fundamental difference is the first step toward making an informed choice about your medication options.
What is simethicone?
Simethicone is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called antiflatulents. It is an oral, over-the-counter (OTC) product used to relieve discomfort caused by excess gas in the stomach and intestines.
How simethicone works
Simethicone's mechanism of action is purely physical, not systemic, which is a key reason for its strong safety profile.
- Breaks down gas bubbles: Simethicone works by changing the surface tension of gas bubbles found in the mucus of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
- Coalescence: This causes smaller gas bubbles to combine and form larger ones.
- Easy expulsion: The larger gas bubbles are much easier for the body to expel naturally through burping or passing gas, thereby relieving pressure and discomfort.
Is simethicone absorbed into the body?
No, simethicone is physiologically inert, meaning it is not absorbed into the bloodstream. Instead, it passes through the body and is excreted unchanged in the feces. This non-systemic nature makes it a safe option for a wide range of patients, including infants.
What is Mylicon?
Mylicon is a well-known brand of infant gas relief drops. It is specifically formulated and marketed for babies and is frequently recommended by pediatricians for treating gas and bloating in infants, including newborns.
Mylicon formulations and ingredients
While the primary Mylicon product for infants uses simethicone, the company offers a variety of products for different age groups and needs.
- Infant's Mylicon Gas Relief Drops: This liquid product contains simethicone and is suitable for infants. It is often available in both original and dye-free versions.
- Children's Mylicon Tummy Relief: This product is designed for older children (ages 2-11) and may contain simethicone in addition to an antacid like calcium carbonate to address both gas and acid indigestion.
- Inactive ingredients: It is important to check the inactive ingredients, especially when administering medication to infants. Mylicon drops typically contain sweeteners, flavorings, and other excipients to make the suspension palatable and stable.
Mylicon vs. Simethicone: Key differences
The core difference is that Mylicon is a brand name, while simethicone is the generic active ingredient. The most significant practical distinction lies in the formulation for different age groups.
| Feature | Mylicon | Simethicone (generic) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Simethicone | Simethicone |
| Classification | Brand Name | Generic Name |
| Target Audience | Primarily infants and young children, depending on the specific product | Infants, children, and adults, with varying strengths available |
| Formulation | Liquid drops for infants; other products may include different ingredients | Available in liquid drops, capsules, and chewable tablets |
| Dosage | Formulated specifically for infants | Varies significantly depending on the product and target age group |
| Cost | Typically higher priced due to brand recognition and marketing | Often less expensive than the brand-name equivalent |
| Inactive Ingredients | Can vary between original and dye-free infant versions and older children's products | Can vary widely between manufacturers, so always check the label |
How to choose between Mylicon and a generic simethicone
When faced with the choice at the pharmacy, consider the following factors:
- Read the active ingredient list. The most critical step is to confirm that the product, whether Mylicon or a generic, contains simethicone as the sole active ingredient, especially for infants. While Mylicon's infant drops do, some of its other products and different adult-focused brands may include other active components like antacids.
- Check inactive ingredients. If your child has sensitivities to dyes, artificial flavors, or sweeteners, compare the inactive ingredients. Mylicon offers a dye-free version, but some generic options may also be available without potentially irritating additives.
- Consider the cost. Because the active ingredient is identical, generic simethicone drops offer the same therapeutic effect as brand-name Mylicon but are often more budget-friendly.
- Consult with a healthcare professional. While generally safe, it's always wise to speak with a pediatrician or pharmacist before starting any new medication, especially for a newborn.
Safety considerations and precautions
Simethicone is a very safe medication with minimal risk of side effects because it is not absorbed systemically. However, here are some important precautions:
- Dosage accuracy is critical. Always use the included syringe or dosing device and follow the directions precisely, especially for infants, to avoid incorrect dosing.
- Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Though uncommon, some individuals may experience a rare allergic reaction to simethicone or other inactive ingredients. Signs include rash, hives, or swelling.
- Overdose risk is minimal. Because it's not absorbed, an overdose of simethicone is highly unlikely to cause serious harm. However, it's still best to seek medical advice if an overdose is suspected.
For more detailed information on simethicone's safety profile and pharmacological properties, you can consult reliable resources such as the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).
Conclusion: The simple distinction
The bottom line is that Mylicon is a specific brand of gas relief drops, and simethicone is the generic drug that makes it work. For many consumers, especially those with infants, the choice between the two will come down to brand loyalty, inactive ingredients, and cost. When used as directed, both Mylicon and generic simethicone are effective and safe options for relieving the discomfort of gas. The most important thing is to read the label carefully to ensure you are selecting the correct formulation for the person in need, whether it's an infant or an adult.
