How Does Gas-X Work

Everyone’s biochemistry is a little different, so speed of gas relief may vary by person. But, in general, Gas-X relieves pressure, bloating, fullness and discomfort caused by excess stomach and intestinal gas in minutes. If you have prolonged discomfort, it’s best to consult with your doctor, just in case.

Gas-X Prevention

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 26, 2022.

Uses of Gas-X Prevention:

• It is used to prevent gas, bloating, and stomach pain.

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Gas-X Prevention?

• If you are allergic to Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules); any part of Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.

This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Gas-X Prevention?

• Tell all of your health care providers that you take Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• Different forms of Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules) may be for use in different ages of children. Talk with the doctor before giving Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules) to a child.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules) while you are pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.

How is this medicine (Gas-X Prevention) best taken?

Use Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• Take Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules) right before the first bite of problem food.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
• Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

What are some other side effects of Gas-X Prevention?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Gas-X Prevention?

• Store at room temperature.
• Protect from heat.
• Keep lid tightly closed.
• Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

• If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
• Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else’s drugs.
• Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about Gas-X Prevention (alpha-galactosidase capsules), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

More about Gas-X Prevention (alpha-d-galactosidase)

• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Drug class: digestive enzymes

Patient resources

Other brands

Other formulations

• Gas-X
• Gas-X Extra Strength
• Gas-X with Maalox Extra Strength

Related treatment guides

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

How Does Gas-X Work?

Gas-X contains simethicone, which breaks down bubbles in your digestive tract. This provides fast relief of the symptoms of gas and bloating.

Fast and Effective

Doctor Recommended

#1 OTC Brand*

Ingredients

In every dose of Gas-X, you’ll find the fast-acting power of simethicone, the ingredient doctors recommend most to reduce gas and bloating symptoms.

Gas-X vs. Antacids

Traditional antacids only relieve symptoms of heartburn — and don’t treat gas pain. Our new Total Relief Chews work double duty to provide heartburn and gas pain relief in one great-tasting tablet.

Frequently Asked Questions

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers. Check out our FAQs page.

What is the active ingredient in Gas-X?

The active ingredient in Gas-X is simethicone. Simethicone is the #1 doctor-recommended OTC ingredient for fast gas relief — it helps break up gas bubbles in your stomach and intestines. Once this trapped gas is broken down, your body can then get rid of the gas naturally.

How fast does Gas-X work?

Everyone’s biochemistry is a little different, so speed of gas relief may vary by person. But, in general, Gas-X relieves pressure, bloating, fullness and discomfort caused by excess stomach and intestinal gas in minutes. If you have prolonged discomfort, it’s best to consult with your doctor, just in case.

How often can you take Gas-X?

Gas-X is available in different strengths of the active ingredient, simethicone and therefore it depends on which Gas-X product you prefer to use. Click here to choose the product you’re interested in, then view the usage directions on that product page.

Does Gas-X cause constipation?

Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation. If you experience constipation, stop using the product and consult with your doctor to determine if Gas-X is appropriate for your use.

Can I take Gas-X?

If you are uncertain if Gas-X is appropriate for you, please speak to your doctor or a pharmacist. Simethicone, the active ingredient in Gas-X, works fast, without being absorbed into the bloodstream. Please use Gas-X products only as directed.