Meteospasmyl (Alverine Citrate, Simeticone)

Meteospasmyl is an antispasmodic and antiflatulent used to manage functional gastrointestinal disturbances.

• Intestinal colic: reduces painful spasms and cramping of the intestine.
• Flatulence: facilitates the elimination of excess gas and relieves bloating.
• Irritable bowel syndrome: eases abdominal pain and irregular bowel habits associated with IBS.
• Abdominal pain: diminishes discomfort caused by gastrointestinal muscle spasm.
• Bloating: decreases the sensation of abdominal fullness.

• Alverine citrate acts as a direct smooth‑muscle relaxant, inhibiting calcium influx in gastrointestinal smooth muscle cells and thereby reducing spasm. Simethicone is a surfactant that lowers the surface tension of gas bubbles, causing them to coalesce and be expelled more easily through the gastrointestinal tract.

Meteospasmyl is generally well tolerated, but some patients may experience adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset after ingestion.
• Headache: transient tension‑type headache.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headed sensation.
• Diarrhoea: loose stools in a minority of users.
• Abdominal discomfort: mild cramping unrelated to the condition being treated.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Severe dizziness: persistent vertigo or loss of balance.
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzymes (very rare).

Before using Meteospasmyl, consider the following safety measures.

• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare professional before use; safety data are limited.
• Breastfeeding: discuss potential risks with a physician, as drug transfer to milk is not well defined.
• Existing medical conditions: inform the prescriber of any liver, kidney or gastrointestinal disorders.
• Concomitant medications: disclose all current medicines to avoid possible interactions.
• Storage: Store below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Meteospasmyl may interact with other agents; awareness of the interaction level helps guide monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticholinergic drugs: may enhance antispasmodic effect, increasing risk of severe constipation.
• CYP450 inhibitors: potential alteration of alverine metabolism leading to higher plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Other antispasmodics: additive muscle‑relaxant effect may cause excessive GI motility reduction.
• Proton‑pump inhibitors: may affect absorption of alverine citrate.
• Herbal preparations containing menthol or peppermint oil: could potentiate smooth‑muscle relaxation.