Colofac

What is Colofac?

Colofac is a medicine used to treat the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (or ‘IBS’ for short). It’s a common condition that affects your digestive system, causing symptoms like cramps, diarrhoea, constipation and discomfort. ^[2] Although IBS is a widespread condition, there’s no cure. However, changing your diet and using medication can help to improve your symptoms.

Colofac contains the active ingredient mebeverine hydrochloride, which is a type of antispasmodic. IBS is usually associated with pain, discomfort and spasms in the digestive system. Colofac works by relieving these spasms and other symptoms, allowing you to feel more comfortable.

How does Colofac work?

IBS is a condition that affects your lower gastrointestinal tract, including the small and large intestines. When your intestines spasm (squeeze or tighten), it can cause pain in your lower abdomen. Colofac’s active ingredient, mebeverine hydrochloride, is an antispasmodic. This means it relaxes the muscles in your intestines, which stops spasms from occurring. ^[1]

What doses of Colofac are there?

Colofac comes in 2 different doses: Colofac 135mg tablets and Colofac 200mg Modified-Release capsules.

Both contain the same active ingredient, mebeverine hydrochloride, but the 200mg version is a slow-release tablet. A slow-release tablet releases the drug gradually over a period of time rather than in one go.

How to take Colofac

Both Colofac 200mg MR capsules and Colofac 135mg tablets should be taken 20 minutes before eating a meal, with a whole glass of water. Do not chew the tablets.

• The dosage depends on the version of Colofac taken.
• The starting dose for Colofac 200mg MR capsules is 1 capsule taken twice a day.
• For Colofac 135mg tablets, 1 tablet is taken 3 times a day. This number can be lowered if symptoms improve, but do not take more than 3 tablets daily.

If you’re taking two tablets a day, take one before breakfast and the other before your evening meal. And for 3 times a day, take one before your breakfast, lunch and evening meal. Children under the age of 10 shouldn’t take Colofac, unless advised. ^[1]

How long does Colofac take to work?

Colofac usually starts to work around 1 hour after taking it.

Once you feel better, you can stop taking Colofac (but it’s better to ask our clinicians first before stopping). If your symptoms remain the same after 2 weeks have passed, contact our clinician for the next steps. ^[1]

Making a mistake whilst taking Colofac

If you forget to take a dose, take it when you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.

If you have taken more Colofac than required, talk to our clinicians or go to the A&E if you feel any side effects.