Colpermin Capsules (Peppermint Oil)

What is Colpermin?

Colpermin capsules are used to relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS can be triggered by stress, hormones or foods and includes symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation. It is often related to abnormal muscle contraction and inflammation of the intestinal wall.

How does Colpermin work?

Colpermin contains peppermint oil, which is a natural antispasmodic. The capsules have an enteric coat which prevents them from dissolving until they have passed through the stomach and upper intestine into the lower intestine. Here, the capsules gradually release the peppermint oil which relaxes the muscles of the bowel wall, preventing painful spasms and easing bloating.

How effective is Colpermin?

Results differ from patient to patient, but Colpermin generally provides effective relief from IBS if used correctly. 

Active ingredients

The active ingredient in Colpermin is peppermint oil.

Inactive ingredients

The inactive ingredients in Colpermin are gelatin, colloidal silica, titanium dioxide (E171), indigotine (E132), Eudragit L, Eudragit S, triethylcitrate, monostearin, macrogol 4000, talc, purified water, beeswax, refined arachis (peanut) oil, ammonia.

Colpermin dosage

Always take Colpermin as instructed by a doctor or pharmacist. The recommended dose for adults and children over the age of 15 is 1 capsule three times a day until symptoms are resolved. For severe symptoms, the dosage can be increased to 2 capsules 2 times a day. 

How to take Colpermin

One capsule of Colpermin should be swallowed with a small amount of water 3 times a day. For best results, take each dose 30-60 minutes before a meal. Do not take Colpermin directly before of after a meal, or in combination with indigestion remedies. Colpermin capsules should not be chewed or broken before being swallowed. 

Symptoms should be resolved within 2 weeks. If they do not improve, or if they worsen, consult your doctor.  

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Colpermin should be taken 30-60 minutes before a meal. If you forget to take your capsule, do not take it directly before or after eating. Missing a dose is not harmful, just resume taking the medication the recommended time before your next meal.

Colpermin side effects

Like all medicine, some people may experience side effects while taking Colpermin. If you experience any of the following, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor:

• Burning sensation in the mouth or the throat
• Indigestion or heartburn
• Nausea or vomiting
• Anal discomfort

If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction to Colpermin, stop using the medication and seek immediate medical care.  

Contraindications

Do NOT take Colpermin if:

• You are allergic to peppermint oil or any of the other ingredients in this medication.
• You are allergic to peanuts or soya

Before taking Colpermin, speak to your doctor if:

• This is the first time you have experienced symptoms of IBS.
• Your symptoms do not improve within 2 weeks.
• You regularly suffer from heartburn.  

Drug interactions

Talk to your doctor for advice if you are taking any indigestion remedies before starting Colpermin. 

Colpermin and alcohol

You can drink alcohol while taking this medication.

Colpermin and pregnancy

If you are pregnant, or are planning on becoming pregnant, consult your doctor for advice before taking this medication.

Colpermin when breastfeeding

Speak to your advice if you are planning on taking Colpermin while breastfeeding.

Alternatives to Colpermin

Alternative treatments for IBS are available to purchase from Dr Felix. Colofac comes in the form of tablets or capsules and contains the active ingredient mebeverine hydrochloride, antispasmodic which works in a similar way to peppermint oil. Fybogel Mebeverine is available in the form of dispersible sachets and contains mebeverine hydrochloride and ispaghula husk, which promotes the growth of healthy probiotics in the gut and acts as a mild laxative. Fill in a form with Dr Felix to find out with treatment is best for you.

Lifestyle changes to make with Colpermin

Alongside treatment such as Colpermin, you can try adjusting your lifestyle to help relieve the symptoms of IBS. Changes to your lifestyle might include:

• Keeping a diary of what you eat to try and figure out what might be triggering your symptoms
• Exercise regularly
• Try probiotics
• Find ways to relax
• Cook balanced meals using fresh ingredients
• Don't skip or delay meals
• Don’t eat quickly
• Don’t drink more than 3 cups of tea or coffee per day, and avoid drinking too much alcohol or fizzy drinks
• Avoid eating fatty or processed foods
• Don’t eat more than 3 portions of fresh fruit per day  

Can Colpermin be used for constipation?

The effectiveness of Colpermin as a laxative is uncertain. The antispasmodic properties of peppermint oil may help ease constipation by relaxing the bowel muscles. This medicine should not be taken without prior diagnosis from a doctor.   

Sources

• Patient information leaflet
• NHS > IBS
• Livestrong > Peppermint oil