Dicyclomine - By: Marcia McWhite

Description of Dicyclomine

Dicyclomine is a medication that is mainly used for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. It is classified within the group of drugs known as anticholinergics. Anticholinergics obstruct the dire effects of acetylcholine which is a chemical transmitter released by the nerves to promote muscular contractions. These drugs will limit contractions by blocking the acetylcholine receptors that are found on muscle cells. They will also promote the relaxation of the muscles. Dicyclomine will specifically lower the number of muscle contractions that occur in the intestines. It has been available for mass consumption since 1950 when it was approved by the FDA.

Dosing

The initial oral dose of dicyclomine is 20 mg which should be taken 4 times daily. It is possible for the dose to be increased to 40 mg, for as much as 4 times per day. If the medication will be administered by intramuscular injection the amount will typically be 20 mg, 4 times per day.

It is available as a capsule, a tablet, and a syrup that may be administered orally. It is generally taken four times daily. It is recommended that it is taken at the same times for each new day to lower the likelihood that you will forget to take the medication. This simply means that you can take it at regularly scheduled intervals for example, at 8am, 12pm, 4pm and 8pm. Make certain that you take the medication as it is prescribed, and seek clarification from your doctor and pharmacist about dosing instructions.

If Pregnant or Nursing

There is a lack of substantial information on the effect of dicyclomine on pregnant women at the normal dosages of 80-160 mg per day. However studies that observed pregnant women who were using dicyclomine in the amounts of 40 mg per day for the duration of the first trimester of pregnancy did not appear to expose the foetus to any greater risk of developmental abnormalities.

Because Dicyclomine is absorbed and consequently excreted into breast milk it is generally not recommended that any mother breast feed while on dicyclomine. There have been reported cases of apnea or cessation of breathing when dicyclomine was taken by children. It is hence important that as a precautionary measure you do not indirectly expose your child to the drug while breastfeeding.

Side Effects

There are a few side effects that are associated with taking dicyclomine these are inclusive of:

Confusion

Dry mouth

Blurred vision

Agitation

Increased heart rate

Heart palpitations

Constipation

Difficulty urinating

Seizures

Less often you may experience some additional side effects.

Changes in taste

Difficulty swallowing

Headache

Nervousness

Drowsiness

Weakness

Dizziness

Impotence

Flushing

Difficulty falling asleep

Nausea

Vomiting

Rash

Bloating

Difficulty breathing

Storing the Medication

Do not remove the medication from its original container. Keep it sealed and beyond the reach of children. Make sure it is kept at room temperature and away from excessive heat, cold and moisture. Throw out the medication once the expiration date has passed, the drug will no longer be effective at this point.

In case of accidental overdose

In case of accidental overdose get in touch with your local poison control at 1-800-222-1222. If the individual has passed out and is not breathing it is best to call 911 for immediate emergency treatment. Some symptoms of overdose may include:

Hallucinations: hearing or seeing things that are not really there.

Excitement

Headache

Nervousness

Upset stomach

Difficulty swallowing

Vomiting

Blurred vision

Dilated pupils

Hot, dry skin

Dizziness

Dry mouth

About the Author

Please visit this link for more information on the drug, Dicyclomine: Dicyclomine, Fexofenadine:Fexofenadine

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