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## Att Drugs (Attapulgite)
### Overview
Attapulgite is a naturally occurring mineral adsorbent.
### Primary Indications
* Adjunctive therapy in the treatment of diarrhea.
### Adult Dosing
* **Oral Suspension:** 10.2 g (equivalent to 10.2 mL of a 7.9% w/v suspension) administered orally every 2 hours as needed for diarrhea.
* **Oral Tablets:** 1.5 g administered orally every 2 hours as needed for diarrhea.
* **Maximum Dose:** No specific maximum dose is established, but frequency should be guided by symptom relief and tolerability.
### Pediatric Dosing
* **Children 6 to <12 years:** 7.5 g administered orally every 2 hours as needed for diarrhea.
* **Children <6 years:** Safety and efficacy have not been established. Use with caution and at the discretion of a healthcare provider.
### Dose Adjustments
* **Renal Impairment:** No specific dose adjustment is recommended.
* **Hepatic Impairment:** No specific dose adjustment is recommended.
### Contraindications
* Known hypersensitivity to attapulgite.
* Patients with severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever of unknown origin, as these may be signs of serious conditions (e.g., obstruction, appendicitis) where attapulgite could be detrimental.
### Adverse Effects
* Constipation is the most common adverse effect.
* Abdominal discomfort.
* Nausea.
* Intestinal obstruction (rare, particularly with excessive use or in patients with pre-existing bowel motility issues).
### Key Drug Interactions
* Attapulgite can adsorb other medications, potentially decreasing their absorption and efficacy. Administer other oral medications at least 2 hours before or several hours after attapulgite.
* Caution with medications that affect gastrointestinal motility.
### Monitoring
* Monitor for resolution of diarrhea.
* Monitor for signs of constipation or intestinal obstruction.
* Assess for adequate hydration, especially in pediatric patients.
### Clinical Pearls
* Attapulgite works by adsorbing excess water and toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.
* It is not absorbed systemically.
* If diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours, or if fever or blood is present in the stool, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
* Adequate fluid intake is crucial during treatment for diarrhea.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and professional resources for definitive guidance. Dosing and recommendations may vary based on individual patient factors and local protocols.