Colofac IBS Tablets

Colofac IBS tablets are used to relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): stomach cramps, tummy pain and bloating. Each tablet contains 135mg of mebeverine, an antispasmodic that relaxes the muscles in your gut. You take one tablet three times a day, about 20 minutes before meals. At MedsRus, our pharmacy team reviews a short online consultation before supplying Colofac IBS, and we send it in discreet packaging.

Colofac IBS at a glance

What are Colofac tablets used for?

Colofac IBS is used to relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, including:

• stomach cramps and spasms;
• tummy pain and discomfort;
• bloating and a swollen tummy;
• bowel habits that swap between diarrhoea and constipation.

It's for people whose IBS has already been diagnosed by a doctor. If you have IBS-type symptoms for the first time, see a GP first, because other conditions can cause similar symptoms. Our page on IBS treatment covers symptoms, diet changes and when to see a doctor.

How does Colofac IBS work?

Your gut is lined with muscle that squeezes food along. In IBS, these muscles can contract too strongly or out of rhythm, causing painful cramps and bloating. Mebeverine acts directly on the gut muscle to relax it and calm the spasms, without affecting normal gut movement. Because it works locally in the gut, it doesn't cause drowsiness.

How to take Colofac IBS tablets

• Take one tablet three times a day.
• Take it about 20 minutes before a meal.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Don't chew it.
• You can take it during a flare-up and stop when your symptoms settle.
• See your GP if your symptoms haven't improved after 2 weeks, or get worse.

If you miss a dose, take the next one at the usual time. Don't take two doses together.

Side effects of Colofac IBS

Side effects are rare. They can include:

• skin rash or itching;
• swelling of the face, lips or throat (a rare allergic reaction).

Stop taking it and get urgent help if you have signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling or difficulty breathing.

Who shouldn't take Colofac IBS?

Don't take Colofac IBS, and speak to a GP first, if you:

• are over 40 and your symptoms are new, or have changed recently;
• have blood in your poo, or black, tarry poo;
• have lost weight without trying;
• feel sick or are being sick, or have a fever;
• have abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge;
• have difficulty or pain when peeing;
• are pregnant or breastfeeding;
• are under 18.

It's also not suitable if you have porphyria, or are allergic to mebeverine.

Colofac and mebeverine: what's the difference?

Colofac IBS is a brand of mebeverine 135mg. Generic mebeverine tablets contain the same medicine and work in the same way. A 200mg modified-release capsule, taken twice a day, is also available on prescription.

Tips for managing IBS

Medicine works best alongside lifestyle changes:

• eat regular meals and don't rush them;
• keep a food diary to spot triggers;
• cut down on alcohol, caffeine, fizzy drinks and fatty or spicy food;
• try oats for wind and bloating;
• manage stress with exercise or relaxation.

If you also get heartburn, see our acid reflux treatments.

How to order Colofac IBS from MedsRus

1. Answer a few questions about your symptoms, your diagnosis and any medicines you take.
2. Our pharmacy team reviews them and, if Colofac IBS is suitable, approves your order.
3. We send it in discreet packaging.

Colofac IBS FAQs

What are Colofac tablets used for?

To relieve stomach cramps, pain and bloating caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

How quickly does Colofac work?

Many people notice their symptoms ease within a few days.

How many Colofac tablets can I take a day?

One tablet three times a day, about 20 minutes before meals.

Can I take Colofac long term?

You can take it during flare-ups. If you need it for more than 2 weeks without improvement, see your GP.

Does Colofac cause drowsiness?

No. It works directly on the gut and doesn't usually make you drowsy.

Is Colofac the same as mebeverine?

Yes. Colofac IBS contains mebeverine 135mg, the same medicine as generic mebeverine tablets.

Further reading

• IBS treatment
• Mebeverine tablets

Sources:

• NHS: Mebeverine
• NHS: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• NICE CG61: Irritable bowel syndrome in adults