Do you often experience stomach pain, bloating, and discomfort? One reason for this could be a condition called Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). So, in such cases, a medicine that doctors often recommend, which relaxes the muscles of the intestines and reduces pain, is called Dicyclomine. Today, we will talk about this medicine in simple terms, how to use it, what to be careful about, and its side effects.
What is Dicyclomine?
Simply put, Dicyclomine is a medicine that relaxes the muscles in your stomach and intestines by stopping them from contracting (cramps). It belongs to a class of drugs called antispasmodics . That is, it is a type of medicine that reduces muscle spasms and pain. It is mainly used to control symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating caused by a condition called Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) .
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she should have a complete picture of your health condition. This medicine may not be compatible with some medical conditions. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to inform your doctor.
| Your medical condition | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Difficulty urinating or prostate problems | This medication may make it more difficult to urinate. |
| Glaucoma | It can increase eye pressure and worsen the condition. |
| Heart disease, or if you have had a previous heart attack | Heart rate can be affected. |
| Myasthenia gravis | This muscle-weakening disease can worsen. |
| Ulcerative colitis | In some cases, symptoms may worsen. |
| Digestive problems, heartburn | These symptoms may change or increase. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | Medical advice is essential as this medicine may affect the baby. |
| If you have allergies to other medicines, foods or substances | You should also be aware of the possibility of an allergy to this medication. |
How should I use this medicine?
It is very important to follow exactly as your doctor tells you when using this medicine.
- This medicine should usually be taken with a glass of water.
- For best results, it is best to take it on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to an hour before meals .
- Take the prescribed dose at the time prescribed by your doctor. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
- Even if you feel better, do not stop taking the medication without asking your doctor.
What if you give it to children?
This medicine is recommended by doctors in some special cases for children over 6 months of age. But it requires special care. Therefore, if you give this medicine to a child, it should be done only on the advice of a pediatrician .
If you are over 65 years old?
If an older person takes this medication, they may feel the effects a little more strongly. Therefore, they are usually prescribed a lower dose.
Special attention to overdose!
If you think you have taken more of this medicine than prescribed, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately . Otherwise, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital without delay. This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with others.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason .
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some other medications you take may interact with Dicyclomine and reduce or increase its effects, or cause side effects. Therefore , it is essential to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements you are taking.
Below are some medications that may interact with Dicyclomine.
- Antacids (liquids/tablets for gastritis)
- Medicines for allergies and colds
- Medication for depression or other mental illnesses
- Sleeping pills or anxiety medications
- Some medicines for diarrhea
- Painkillers
- Specific medications such as Digoxin, Amantadine, Benztropine
Things to consider when taking medication
- Drowsiness and dizziness: You may feel drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. So , do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce the risk of dizziness and falls, especially if you are elderly, be careful not to get up or sit down suddenly.
- Alcohol: Taking this medication with alcohol can increase drowsiness. Therefore, avoid drinking alcohol.
- Excessive heat: This medication reduces sweating. Therefore, be careful with excessive heat (hot tubs, saunas). Otherwise, your body temperature may rise dangerously, leading to a condition called heat stroke.
- Antacids: If you need to take an antacid for a condition like gastritis, take it 1-2 hours before or after taking Dicyclomine. Dicyclomine will not be absorbed properly if taken together.
- Dry mouth: Dry mouth is a common side effect. You can control this by chewing sugar-free gum and drinking plenty of water. However, if it is severe, talk to your doctor.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common. It's important to be aware of these.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Anticholinergic toxicity | Redness of the face, blurred vision, dry mouth and skin, confusion, rapid or irregular heartbeat, difficulty urinating. |
| Intestinal obstruction | Severe stomach pain, inability to defecate or pass air, loss of appetite, vomiting. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Common side effects | Blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Dicyclomine is a medication that controls stomach cramps caused by IBS.
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have and any other medicines you are taking.
- For best results, take on an empty stomach before meals. Only take the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
- Taking the medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness, so be careful when doing tasks that require concentration.
- Avoid excessive heat and alcohol.
- If you experience any severe side effects (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain), seek medical advice immediately.
- If you take too much medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre immediately or go to the ETU at the nearest hospital.
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