Indications
Xanthan Gum is an inactive ingredient (excipient), not a medicine. It is a natural thickener made by fermenting sugar with a bacterium. In medicines it is used to thicken oral suspensions and syrups (for example antibiotic suspensions) so that the active medicine stays evenly mixed and each dose is accurate. It is also used in creams, gels, toothpastes and foods, and in some thickening products for people with swallowing difficulties.
How It Works
Xanthan Gum is a long chain sugar (polysaccharide). When mixed with water it forms a smooth, thick liquid that becomes thinner when shaken or poured and thickens again when left to stand. This helps keep powder particles suspended, makes liquids easier to pour and measure, and gives creams and gels a stable texture. It is not absorbed from the gut in any meaningful amount and has no medicinal effect of its own in the small amounts used.
Dosage and Administration
There is no separate dose for Xanthan Gum. The amount present in a product is set by the manufacturer. Use the medicine that contains it exactly as directed on the label or by your doctor. For suspensions, shake the bottle well before each dose so the medicine is evenly mixed.
Interactions
At the small amounts used in medicines, no important interactions are known. Large amounts taken as a fibre or thickener may slightly slow the absorption of other medicines taken at the same time.
Contraindications
- Known allergy or intolerance to Xanthan Gum.
- Large dietary amounts should be avoided in people with bowel blockage.
Side Effects
Xanthan Gum is generally very well tolerated. In large amounts it can cause wind, bloating or softer stools. Allergic reactions are rare; people with severe allergy to corn, soy or wheat sometimes react, depending on how it was made.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash after taking a product.
Pregnancy and Lactation
At the amounts found in medicines and foods, Xanthan Gum is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Follow the advice for the active medicine in the product.
Precautions and Warnings
- Thickened liquids for swallowing problems in infants should only be used on medical advice.
- Check the full ingredient list if you have food allergies.
- The safety and use of a product depend mainly on its active ingredients.
Overdose
Overdose of Xanthan Gum from medicines is very unlikely. Very large amounts may cause bloating or diarrhoea, which settle without treatment.
Therapeutic Class
Pharmaceutical excipient; suspending, thickening and stabilising agent.
Storage
Store the product below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children, or as directed on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.