Sometimes, due to certain medical conditions, frequent drooling from the mouth can be a big problem for our child or a family member. This is especially seen with conditions like cerebral palsy. This excessive drooling can lead to skin infections around the mouth and can be embarrassing in society. So, Glycopyrrolate is a medicine that doctors recommend to control this excessive drooling. Let's talk about this medicine in detail today.
What is this Glycopyrrolate?
Simply put, Glycopyrrolate is a medication that reduces the amount of saliva produced by controlling the activity of the salivary glands in our mouth. It usually comes in the form of a solution. In Sri Lanka, it can sometimes be found under brand names like Cuvposa. This medication does not cure the underlying disease, but rather controls the symptom of excessive salivation caused by that disease.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Okay, before you or your child start this medication, there are some important things you need to tell your doctor. Because, you need to be very careful when using this medication with certain medical conditions. If you have any of the following conditions, be sure to inform your doctor.
| Disease or condition | Reason for notification |
|---|---|
| Difficulty urinating | This medication may increase urinary retention. |
| Eye problems (e.g. glaucoma) | Eye pressure may increase. |
| Heart disease or irregular heartbeat | Heart rate may change. |
| Stomach problems (e.g., GERD with hiatal hernia, intestinal obstruction, ulcerative colitis) | The functioning of the digestive system can be slowed down. |
| High blood pressure | May affect blood pressure. |
| Kidney disease | Affects the elimination of the drug from the body. |
| Myasthenia Gravis | Muscle weakness may increase. |
| Thyroid problems | The situation can be affected. |
| Allergies to Glycopyrrolate or other substances | To prevent allergic reactions. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | To consider the possible effects on the child. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
Since this is a liquid, it is very important to measure the exact amount your doctor tells you to take. Do not measure with household teaspoons or syrup cups, as they are not very accurate. Use a special spoon or cup provided by the pharmacy, or an oral syringe for children.
It is best to take this medicine one hour before or two hours after a meal . This is because taking it with food can reduce its absorption. Take it at the prescribed intervals as directed by your doctor.
When giving to children
This is also given to children over the age of 3 for some special conditions. However, you should discuss it with your doctor and follow his instructions exactly.
What if I overdose?
Remember, if you accidentally take too much of this medicine, do not take it lightly. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Important: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not give it to anyone else who has the same symptoms as you.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
There is one thing you should never take while taking this medicine. That is potassium tablets or capsules . Taking these two together can cause serious stomach ulcers. Also, it can interact with several other medications. If you are taking these medications, you should tell your doctor.
- Amantadine
- Atenolol
- Digoxin
- Haloperidol
- Levodopa
- Metformin
This list is not complete. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, traditional medicines, and supplements you are taking.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Drowsiness and alertness: This medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision . Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Be careful when standing: To reduce the risk of dizziness and falls, especially if you are elderly, do not stand or sit suddenly. Change positions frequently.
- Alcohol: Taking this medication with alcohol may increase drowsiness. Therefore, avoid alcohol.
- Dry mouth: Dry mouth is common with this medication. You can manage this by chewing sugar-free gum and drinking plenty of water. However, if this problem persists or is severe, tell your doctor.
This is very important! This medicine can reduce your body's ability to sweat. Therefore, you need to be very careful when exercising in hot places. Otherwise, your body temperature can rise dangerously and cause a condition called heat stroke .
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Intestinal obstruction | Stomach pain, inability to defecate or pass air, loss of appetite, vomiting. |
| Persistent fever, decreased sweating | It may be a sign of elevated body temperature. |
| Difficulty urinating | No or little urine output. |
| If these symptoms persist or are bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Blurred vision | Not seeing things clearly. |
| Constipation | Difficulty defecating. |
| Dry mouth | The state of not having saliva in the mouth. |
| Drowsiness | Feeling more sleepy than usual. |
| Flushing | Redness of the face or neck area. |
This list may not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, contact your doctor for advice.
How should you store your medicine?
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius). Keep the bottle tightly closed. Throw away expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Glycopyrrolate is a medication that controls the symptom of drooling, not a medication that cures the disease that causes it.
- When giving medication, measure out the exact dosage your doctor prescribes. Do not use household teaspoons.
- Take the medicine one hour before or two hours after meals.
- Tell your doctor about all medications you take and all medical conditions you have.
- Be careful of excessive heat when taking this medication. There is a risk of heat stroke as sweating is reduced.
- If you accidentally take too much medicine, go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- This medicine is for you only, do not share it with others.
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