subject: Dicyclomine - Relief For Ibs Sufferers [print this page] Dicyclomine is a medication that is primarily used for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. It is categorized 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 inhibiting the acetylcholine receptors that are found on muscle cells. They will also aid the relaxation of the muscles. Dicyclomine will specifically decrease 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 taken orally. It is generally taken four times per day. 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 explanation 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 subsequently excreted into breast milk it is generally not advisable to breast feed while on dicyclomine. There have been reported cases of apnea or cessation of breathing when dicyclomine was given to children. It is therefore 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 will include:
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 out of the reach of children. Ensure it is kept at room temperature and away from excessive heat, cold and moisture. Discard 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.
