REFORMULATION OF KAOPECTATE (PHARMACIA CORP.)

Information about the reformulation of Kaopectate, a commonly used over-the-counter (OTC) medication used for diarrhea. Kaopectate no longer contains attapulgite. The new formulation is bismuth subsalicylate (the same ingredient found in Pepto-Bismol by Procter and Gamble). Attapulgite is an absorbent type antidiarrheal and is not recommended for children under 3 years of age due to an increased risk of electrolyte loss.

This new formulation is already being shipped from the manufacturer, but little information to alert physicians, pharmacists, nurses or the consumer has preceded this reformulation.