 Diosmectite powder | |
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| AHFS/Drugs.com | International Drug Names |
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| Formula | (Na-Ca)0.33-(Al-Mg)2-Si4-O10-(O-H)2·(H2O)2 |
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Diosmectite (brand namesSmecta,Smecdral) is a naturalsilicate ofaluminium andmagnesium used as anintestinaladsorbent in the treatment of severalgastrointestinal diseases, including infectious and non-infectious acute and chronicdiarrhoea, includingirritable bowel syndrome diarrhea subtype. Other uses include: chronic diarrhea caused by radiation-induced, chemotherapy-induced, andHIV/AIDS-associated chronic diarrhea.[1]
It isinsoluble in water. It is usually taken orally as a suspension in warm water. In the field of geology, it is more commonly known asmontmorillonite. Diosmectite is a contraction of "dioctahedralsmectite".
Its effectiveness in improving stool consistency is the result of its alleged ability to absorb bacteria, viruses and toxins as well as strengthening the intestinal mucus barrier to reduceluminalantigens passing through the mucus barrier which in turn helps to reduce inflammation.[1]
Diosmectite may be a useful additive in the treatment of acute childhood diarrhoea. As evidence is of ‘low quality’, future research is needed with higher quality designs before any firm recommendations can be made.[2]