MedlinePlus Drug Information: Kaolin and Pectin

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Other drug names:	A-Am An-Az B C-Ch Ci-Cz D-Dh Di-Dz E F G H I-J K-L M-Mh Mi-Mz N-Nh Ni-Nz O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q-R S-Sn So-Sz T-To Tp-Tz U-V W-Z 0-9

Kaolin and Pectin

(kay' oh lin) (pek' tin)

Brand name(s): Kaopectate; Kapectolin; K-C; K-Pek

Contents of this page:
Why is this medication prescribed? How should this medicine be used? What special precautions should I follow? What should I do if I forget a dose?	What side effects can this medication cause? What storage conditions are needed for this medicine? What other information should I know?

Why is this medication prescribed?

Kaolin and pectin are used to treat mild to moderate diarrhea.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?

Kaolin and pectin come as a tablet, chewable tablet, and liquid to take by mouth. This medication usually is taken after each loose bowel movement. The label tells you how much to take at each dose. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take kaolin and pectin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medicine evenly.

Drink plenty of water or other beverages to replace fluids lost while having diarrhea. If your diarrhea does not get better within 48 hours or if you get a fever, call your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking kaolin and pectin,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to kaolin and pectin or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins. If you take digoxin (Lanoxin) or thyroid medicine (such as Synthroid), wait at least 2 hours after taking it before taking kaolin and pectin.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking kaolin and pectin, call your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take kaolin and pectin regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Although side effects from kaolin and pectin are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if the following symptom is severe or does not go away:

constipation

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Last Revised - 01/01/2003

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. Disclaimer