Reviewed by Virginia Chachati MPharm
(2013, University College London)
GPhC Registration number: 2087654
Information last reviewed 03/03/21
Colpermin capsules help relieve the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS can be triggered by stress, hormones or certain foods. Symptoms of IBS include stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. Muscle spasms and inflammation of the intestinal wall cause these IBS symptoms.
Colpermin contains peppermint oil, which is an antispasmodic. Colpermin capsules have an enteric coating which prevents them from dissolving until they have passed through the stomach and small intestine. When the Colpermin capsule reaches your bowels, it gradually releases peppermint oil which relaxes the muscles of the bowel wall. This prevents painful spasms and helps reduce bloating.
Colpermin generally provides effective relief from IBS if used correctly. Colpermin acts locally in your bowels and is not absorbed into your bloodstream.
Dose |
1 capsule, three times per day |
Type of Medicine |
Antispasmodic |
Mechanism |
Relaxes smooth muscle by altering the flow of calcium ions, preventing spasm |
Available Size |
100, 200 or 300 capsules |
Available Strengths |
0.2mls |
Active Ingredient |
Peppermint oil |
Price |
From 17p per capsule |
Side Effects | Can include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, acid reflux, burning sensation in the mouth, anal irritation, allergic reactions
|
The active ingredient in Colpermin is peppermint oil.
The inactive ingredients in Colpermin are gelatin, colloidal silica, titanium dioxide (E171), indigotine (E132), Eudragit L, Eudragit S, triethyl citrate, monostearin, macrogol 4000, talc, purified water, beeswax, refined arachis (peanut) oil, ammonia.
It is only occasionally that people experience an allergic reaction to peppermint oil. However, these capsules do contain peanuts so if you know you have a nut allergy please avoid taking this medication as it is not suitable for you. Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction are as follows: swelling of the face, development of hives, itching, trouble breathing, tight feeling in the chest and dizziness. Please stop taking the medication if you experience these symptoms and get medical attention straight away.
One capsule of Colpermin should be swallowed with water three times a day. You must take Colpermin 30 to 60 minutes before a meal. Do not take Colpermin directly before or after a meal, or in combination with indigestion medicines such as Gavison or Rennies. Colpermin capsules should not be chewed, crushed or broken before being swallowed.
Your symptoms should feel better within two weeks. If they do not improve, or if they worsen, speak to your doctor.
Always take Colpermin as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The recommended dose for adults and children over the age of 15 years old is one capsule, three times a day until symptoms are resolved. For severe symptoms, the dose can be increased to two capsules twice a day.
Colpermin should be taken 30 to 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. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed dose. Take your next dose before your next meal as needed.
Some people may experience side effects while taking Colpermin. If you experience any of the following, stop taking Colpermin and speak to your doctor:
If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction to Colpermin, such as swelling of the lips or difficulty breathing, stop using Colpermin and seek immediate emergency medical attention.
Do not take Colpermin if:
Before taking Colpermin, speak to your doctor if:
Talk to your doctor for advice if you are taking any other medicines or indigestion remedies before starting Colpermin.
You can drink alcohol while taking Colpermin. However, it is not recommended as alcohol can trigger symptoms of IBS.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, speak to your doctor for advice before taking Colpermin. Generally, it is not recommended to take Colpermin during pregnancy.
Speak to your doctor for advice if you are planning on taking Colpermin while breastfeeding. Generally, it is not recommended.
Alternative treatments for IBS are available to purchase from Dr Felix. Colofac is available as tablets or capsules and contains mebeverine hydrochloride, which is an antispasmodic similar to peppermint oil. Fybogel Mebeverine sachets contain mebeverine hydrochloride and ispaghula husk. Ispaghula husk 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 which treatment is best for you.
Alongside treatment, such as Colpermin, you can try adjusting your lifestyle to help relieve the symptoms of IBS. Lifestyle changes might include:
The antispasmodic action of peppermint oil in Colpermin helps relax your bowel muscles and may provide relief from cramps associated with constipation. However, Colpermin is not a laxative. If you are constipated, please speak to your doctor for advice before using Colpermin.
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