Colpermin Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are Colpermin Capsules?
Colpermin Capsules are supplied in blister packs of 20 or 100 capsules. The capsules are coloured light blue/dark blue, with a blue band around the middle. Colpermin’s active ingredient is peppermint oil BP 0.2. The other ingredients are gelatin, colloidal silica, titanium dioxide (E171), indigotine (E132), eudragit S100, endragit L30 D55, triethyl citrate, ammonia solution 10%, monostearin, polyethylene glycol 4000, talc, purified water, beeswax and refined arachis (peanut) oil.

2. What Kind of Product Is It?
Colpermin is an antispasmodic and a carminative. It is used to relieve that spasm, bloating and cramp which occurs in the large bowel in Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

3. What is Colpermin Used For?
Colpermin is used to relieve the painful spasm and bloating of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Colpermin capsules are specially coated to survive the acidity of the stomach and stay intact until they reach the end of the small bowel, when they start to release the active ingredient. The peppermint oil continues to be steadily released as the capsules pass along the large bowel, so relaxing the spasm of the bowel wall. This relieves pain and allows pockets of gas, which may have made you feel bloated, pass along the bowel and out of the body. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a condition in which there is pain, spasm and bloating at almost any point between the groin, the navel, and the sides, sometimes accompanied by alternating diarrhoea and constipation. These symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome may be more noticeable when you are feeling stressed and anxious.

4. For How Long Should the Capsules be Taken?
Normally these capsules may be needed for only 1 or 2 weeks, but sometimes the discomfort may continue. If the discomfort and pain persist for more than 2 weeks, then you are advised to see your Doctor to make sure there is nothing seriously wrong.

5. What Should I Do If I Have Overdosed?
If you have taken too many capsules or if a child has taken your capsules, immediately inform your Doctor.

6. What Should I Do If I Miss A Dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take the next one as usual. Do not double the next dose.

7. Are There Any Side Effects From Colpermin?
Colpermin is usually well tolerated, though very occasionally heartburn and anal irritation can occur. If you have a tendency to suffer from heartburn and the capsules seem to make it worse, you should stop taking Colpermin and return to your Doctor or Pharmacist for advice.

If the capsules are chewed or broken before being swallowed, the peppermint oil may irritate the mouth and gullet. In very rare instances where someone is allergic to peppermint oil or menthol, a rash, headache, slow pulse rate, clumsiness or shaking may occur. This is more likely when alcohol has been consumed.

8. How do I store my Colpermin?
A "use before" date is on the carton and blister pack. Do not use if the Colpermin is out of date. Store this medicine in a cool place out of sunlight. If you have unwanted medicine, return it to your Pharmacist. Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

9. Can I take Colpermin if I am pregnant?
Are you pregnant or trying to become pregnant? Are you especially sensitive to peppermint oil or menthol? If the answer to either of these questions is "yes", discuss the matter with your Doctor or Pharmacist.