Silicone defoamers have been used successfully to eliminate the mucuscovered bubbles which obstruct a gastroscopist's view of the stomach. This led to their trial in treating patients complaining of flatulence and distention. Two hundred patients, aged 23 to 84 years, were given methyl polysiloxane, a physiologically inert silicone, for four weeks to three and a half years. Although other measures had not relieved symptoms, 40 mg. of methyl polysiloxane taken orally 4 times daily produced excellent or good results in 151 patients. In a control group of 20 patients who had had excellent or good results from the methyl polysiloxane, the substitution of a lactose placebo was followed by renewed complaints within 24 hours in 18 patients.

Methyl polysiloxane, a physiologically inert silicone, effectively relieves intestinal gas and bloating symptoms in 151 patients, with lactose placebos causing renewed complaints within 24 hours.

Paper

Use of silicone in the treatment of intestinal gas and bloating.

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