CBD and Simethicone (e.g. Gas-X, Mylicon, Sab Simplex, Lefax)
David ReichUpdated:Key points at a glance:
Simethicone breaks down gas bubbles in the gut. It acts locally and is not absorbed into the bloodstream, so systemic side effects are considered uncommon. CBD interacts with several receptors and is non-intoxicating. Mild, dose-dependent effects such as tiredness or softer stools are often reported. An interaction between CBD and simethicone is not generally expected, so separating the timing of intake is usually not considered necessary. It may be advisable to start with a low CBD dose and monitor how well it is tolerated. Particular caution is recommended if you are taking long-term medication.
Do you take Lefax, Sab Simplex or another simeticone product and are considering using CBD? This article explains what is currently known about combining CBD and simeticone – with practical guidance for everyday use and a cautious look at possible CBD drug interactions.
What is simeticone? Mode of action, safety, use
Simeticone is an active ingredient used in products for gas and bloating and is found, for example, in Sab Simplex and Lefax (internationally also Gas‑X, Mylicon). It acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract and is not absorbed into the bloodstream.
Simeticone reduces the surface tension of gas bubbles so that they collapse, coalesce and can be passed more easily; it does not prevent the formation of new gas bubbles and is not absorbed from the gut.
Typical forms include drops, chewable tablets or capsules. It is generally considered to be well tolerated; systemic side effects are viewed as very unlikely due to the lack of absorption. Mild gastrointestinal symptoms or skin reactions have been reported in isolated cases.
Simeticone works only in the gut, is not absorbed and is not metabolised by liver enzymes. Systemic side effects and enzyme‑based drug interactions are therefore considered very unlikely.
What is CBD? Mode of action, use, side effects
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non‑intoxicating compound found in the cannabis plant. It is thought to interact mainly with the endocannabinoid system and other targets such as TRPV1 and 5‑HT1A receptors. It is associated with complex signalling pathways that are discussed in relation to stress, pain and inflammatory processes – without directly increasing serotonin release.
CBD is most commonly used in the form of oils (e.g. in MCT oil), capsules or cosmetics. A common approach for getting started is “start low, go slow” – beginning with a low dose and increasing gradually, see CBD dosage.
CBD may, depending on the dose, be associated with tiredness, diarrhoea and changes in appetite. It is not intoxicating. If you take long‑term medication or have liver conditions, it is advisable to seek medical advice.
CBD acts systemically via several receptor systems, is non‑intoxicating and can cause mostly mild, dose‑dependent side effects such as tiredness or diarrhoea.
CBD and simeticone: can they be taken together?
Based on current knowledge, no pharmacokinetic CBD–simeticone interaction is expected: simeticone is not absorbed and is not broken down by CYP enzymes. CBD can inhibit CYP3A4/2C19 and influence the metabolism of some prescription medicines, but this does not affect simeticone.
The main consideration when combining CBD with simeticone is the possibility of overlapping gastrointestinal symptoms (for example, softer stools due to MCT oil in CBD drops), which can make it harder to interpret what is causing which symptom. With combination products (e.g. simeticone with sorbitol/saccharin) or a sensitive stomach, a low starting dose of CBD and careful observation of individual tolerance is advisable.
More on CBD interactions with medicines: Overview
CBD and simeticone are generally considered compatible because simeticone is not systemically absorbed. The more relevant question is whether CBD could interact with your other medicines via liver enzymes (CYP3A4, CYP2C19).
- CBD and simeticone (e.g. Lefax, Sab Simplex, Gas‑X, Mylicon) are commonly used together.
- Start CBD with a low dose and observe your digestion (stools, bloating, cramps).
- No specific spacing between CBD and simeticone doses is required; choose what works in daily life.
- For long‑term treatment with other medicines (e.g. proton pump inhibitors, antiepileptics), check potential CBD drug interactions.
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding, infants/toddlers: use only after medical advice.
Use in practice: dosage, timing, formulations
How to take CBD with simeticone in everyday life
- A time gap between CBD and simeticone is not required. Take both in the way that best fits your routine and symptoms.
- CBD oils vs capsules: if you have a sensitive stomach, capsules or a different carrier oil (instead of MCT) may be better tolerated.
- Simeticone forms (drops/chewable tablets): choose what is most practical for you when gas symptoms occur; both can be combined with CBD.
- Follow the “start low, go slow” approach for CBD and adjust the dose gradually, see CBD dosage: guide.
- If you also take other prescription medicines, discuss CBD use with a doctor or pharmacist because of potential CBD metabolism via CYP3A4/CYP2C19.
Possible side effects and what to watch for
- CBD: tiredness, soft stools/diarrhoea, changes in appetite (often dose‑related).
- Carrier oils: MCT oil can cause softer stools in some people – if needed, adjust the CBD dose or choose a different formulation.
- Simeticone: local action in the gut; rarely mild gastrointestinal symptoms or skin reactions.
- If new or persistent abdominal pain, blood in the stool, fever or unexplained weight loss occur, seek medical advice irrespective of CBD or simeticone use.
Caution: In cases of multiple long‑term medicines, liver or kidney conditions, pregnancy/breastfeeding, or when used in infants/toddlers, always clarify CBD use with a doctor. Keep a brief diary (dose, timing, symptoms). This can make it easier to assess your personal tolerance to CBD and simeticone and to discuss this with a healthcare professional.
You do not usually need to separate CBD and simeticone in time. Focus instead on low starting doses of CBD, suitable formulations for your stomach, and monitoring for any digestive changes.
| Property | CBD | Simeticone |
|---|---|---|
| Site of action | Systemic (several receptors, including endocannabinoid system) | Local in the GI tract |
| Absorption | Yes | No |
| Metabolism | CYP3A4, CYP2C19 and others (possible CBD liver enzyme interactions) | None (not metabolised) |
| Main purpose | Individual everyday use, e.g. in connection with stress | Gas and bloating |
| Typical side effects | Tiredness, diarrhoea, appetite changes | Rare: GI symptoms, skin reactions |
| Expected interaction | No pharmacokinetic interaction between CBD and simeticone expected | |
Check possible CBD interactions with your other medicines (including prescription medicines that are metabolised via CYP3A4 or CYP2C19):
💊 Medication Finder
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Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Do not change medicines or dosages without consulting your doctor. No claims are made regarding the treatment or cure of illnesses.