Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Phazyme® indicated for?
Phazyme® relieves bloating, pressure or fullness commonly referred to as gas (antiflatulent).
How should I use Phazyme®?
If you are taking the Phazyme® softgels, swallow one or two softgels as needed after a meal. If you are taking the Phazyme® tablets, chew one or two tablets thoroughly as needed after a meal. Do not exceed two softgels or four tablets in a 24 hour period.
How soon will Phazyme® start to work?
Phazyme® softgels will start to work within a few minutes of swallowing. Phazyme® tablets will start to work upon swallowing when in contact with gas bubbles in the GI tract.
How does Phazyme® work?
Simethicone, the active ingredient in Phazyme®, is a defoaming agent. It acts to reduce the surface tension of gas bubbles embedded in mucus in the GI tract. As surface tension is altered, the gas bubbles are broken or coalesced so that the gas can be eliminated more easily by the body (belching or passing flatus).
How long will the effects of Phazyme® last?
The effects of Phazyme® last about three hours.
What are the side effects?
We do not expect any side effects since simethicone is inert and does not get absorbed into the bloodstream. Simethicone is a mixture of inert silicone polymers and silica.
Can Phazyme® be used regularly or indefinitely?
The product may be used occasionally to relieve bloating; pressure or fullness commonly referred to as gas. However, if condition persists, consult a physician.
Do you still offer a Liquid Phazyme®?
Unfortunately, The Phazyme® Liquid has been discontinued.
What are the recommended ages for use?
Anyone 12 years old or older may use Phazyme®.
Is Phazyme® approved/regulated by the FDA?
Simethicone, the active ingredient in Phazyme® is the only FDA approved antiflatulent drug. Simethicone meets the OTC Monograph as a safe and effective antiflatulent agent and is regulated as an over the counter drug by the FDA.
Are there any clinical studies available?
There is a clinical study entitled, "Pre-endoscopic use of oral Simethicone"* that demonstrates the efficacy of Simethicone to dispel gas bubbles in the GI tract.
*Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 24 (6) : 283-285, (Nov.) 1978; George B. McDonald, MD, et al.
Can Phazyme® be used if pregnant or nursing?
We recommend checking with a doctor before using Phazyme® if pregnant or nursing.
Can Phazyme® be used with other medications/similar products?
We recommend checking with a doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medications.
Can I use more or less Phazyme® than recommended on the label?
No. Use as directed.
Can a diabetic use it?
It is advisable to consult your physician because there are some saccharide mixtures (sugars) present in the Quick Dissolve Chewable Tablets.
Is Phazyme® habit forming?
No, it is not habit forming when used as directed.
Is Phazyme® available outside of the US?
GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare only has marketing rights for our products in the US. Please check with your doctor or pharmacist on the availability of the product in your country.
We're aware that Phazyme® Softgels are also available in Canada.
Is there any reason I should not take Phazyme®?
There is a warning on the Phazyme® Quick Dissolve Chewable Tablets label for Phenylketonurics: Contains Phenylalanine 0.4mg / tablet.
Is Phazyme® kosher?
No, Phazyme® is not kosher.
Can it be used for animals?
Phazyme® is not intended to treat animals.
Where can I buy Phazyme® Quick Dissolve tablets?
The larger retailers like Wal-Mart, Shoprite, Walgreen's, Eckerd, CVS, Stop & Shop, Pathmark or Wegman's carry the Phazyme® Quick Dissolve tablets.
How is Phazyme® packaged?
Phazyme® is packaged in blister-packs and High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) plastic bottles.
What is the shelf life?
The shelf life of the Ultra Strength Softgels is 36 months and the shelf life of the Quick Dissolve Tablets is 24 months.
Can the package be recycled?
| Softgels: | Blister-pack - NO; Plastic (HDPE) bottles - YES |
| Tablets: | Plastic (HDPE) bottles - YES |
Is there an expiration date on the package?
Yes, there is an expiration date on all Phazyme® packages.
Does the Phazyme® package have a safety seal?
Yes, the product is available in tamper evident blister packs and bottles.
Will Phazyme® stain or discolor clothing or fabric?
We would not expect the Phazyme® tablets or the intact softgels to stain clothing or fabric. However, the inner contents of the softgel may stain clothing or fabric.
At what temperature should this be stored? Can it be stored in the refrigerator or kept very hot or frozen?
As stated on the Phazyme® label, store at 59.0 - 86.0 F (15.0 - 30.0 C). The Quick Dissolve Tablets should not be stored outside of these temperatures. Although it is not recommended, the Ultra Strength Softgels can be stored in the refrigerator, or kept hot or frozen, as long as the softgel has not leaked or ruptured.
