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Attapulgite (By mouth)

Attapulgite (at-a-PUL-gite)

Treats diarrhea. This medicine was withdrawn from the US market on April 17, 2003.

Brand Name(s):

Donnagel, Kao-Tin, Kaopectate Advanced Formula, Kaopek

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to attapulgite. You should not use attapulgite if you have lost a lot of body fluids (dehydration) or if there is blood in your stools.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Chewable Tablet, Liquid

  • Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often. Always follow dosing instructions on the medicine label when taking this medicine without the advice of your doctor.
  • In most cases, you will take one dose after each bowel movement. Drink plenty of caffeine-free clear liquids such as ginger ale, herb tea, water, gelatin, or broth.
  • Swallow the tablet whole.
  • Chew the chewable tablet well and swallow.
  • Shake the oral liquid well before each use.

If a dose is missed:

  • Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store your medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Attapulgite should not be taken at the same time as other medicines; take at least 2 hours before or after other medicines

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Call your doctor if you are still having diarrhea after taking this medicine for 2 days, or if you develop a high fever.
  • You may have severe constipation if you take attapulgite for a long period of time or in large doses.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Nausea.
  • Constipation.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Gas.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/4/2017

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