Generic
Peppermint Oil
5 brands available in the market
At a glance
Peppermint Oil is used for the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Functional Dyspepsia, Abdominal pain and spasm, and Abdominal distension/bloating. It relaxes intestinal smooth muscles and relieves painful abdominal spasm and uncomfortable bloating.
Description
Peppermint Oil is the essential oil obtained by steam-distilling freshly harvested, flowering springs of Mentha x piperita L. Its main constituents are menthol (29%-48%), menthone (20%-31%) and methyl acetate (3%-10%). It relaxes gastrointestinal tract smooth muscles, relieving flatulence and colic.
Indications
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Functional Dyspepsia
- Abdominal pain and spasm
- Abdominal distension/bloating
Therapeutic class
Anticholinergics (antimuscarinics)/ Anti-spasmodics, Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
Smooth Muscle Relaxant & Carminative
Pharmacology
The main constituents of peppermint oil are menthol (29%-48%), menthone (20%-31%) and methyl acetate (3%-10%). It relaxes gastrointestinal tract smooth muscles, especially on the muscles of the large bowel or colon, with antispasmodic effects. It is carminative, antibacterial, and mucolytic.
Mechanism of action
Relaxes gastrointestinal tract smooth muscles and provides antispasmodic effects.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- IBS and GI tract spasm: 0.2 mL (187 mg capsule) three times daily; may increase to 0.4 mL three times daily if necessary; up to 3 months
- 1 capsule (187 mg/0.2 mL) three times daily with a glass of water; max 2 capsules three times daily
Pediatric Dose (8 years and above): 1 capsule three times daily with a glass of water
Administration
- Take 30-60 minutes before meals (do not take with food or immediately after meals)
- Swallow capsules whole; do not chew or crush
- Take with a glass of water
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Irritation
- Erythematous skin rash
- Headache
- Bradycardia
- Muscle tremors and ataxia
- Heartburn
- Exacerbation of asthma with wheezing and dyspnea
- Contact dermatitis, urticaria
Precautions & warnings
- Do not take with food or immediately after meals
- Take 30-60 minutes before meals
- Caution in hiatal hernia, pregnancy, lactation
- Contraindicated in children and achlorhydria; contraindicated in infants due to risk of tongue or respiratory spasm
Contraindications
- Achlorhydria
- Pregnancy
- Cholecystitis
- Hepatic damage
- Children
- Hypersensitivity to any ingredient
Drug interactions
- Alcohol: Exacerbation of adverse effects
- Antacids: Enteric-coated preparations containing peppermint oil should not be taken immediately with antacids
Food interactions
Take 30-60 minutes before meals; food may affect absorption.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: No known restrictions for use during pregnancy; however, caution required.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: No known restrictions for use during lactation; however, caution required.
Pediatric use
Safety not established in children under 8 years; contraindicated in infants due to risk of respiratory arrest.
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients; consult your doctor.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Contraindicated in hepatic damage; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
No overdose information available; consult your doctor if taken in excess.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Peppermint Oil