Drug Name: dicyclomine (dye sye' kloe meen)
Brand Names: Bentyl, Byclomine, Dibent, Di-Spaz, Dilomine
Generic Name: dicyclomine
Uses: Dicyclomine is used for the treatment of IBS or irritable bowel movement. It belongs to the drug class anticholinergics which work by blocking the effects of acetylcholine. The nerves of the muscle release this acetylcholine, a chemical transmitter, to make the muscles contract. Dicyclomine is used to prevent muscle contraction in the intestines.
How to use: Dicyclomine comes in tablets, capsules and syrups. It is usually taken four times a day. The dosage is dependent on the individual’s needs but the effective dose is at 160mg a day. Initial dose begins at 80mg a day then after the first week of therapy, the dosage may be increased to as much as 160mg a day depending on the patient’s response. Intramuscular dosage is also available for patients that cannot take oral medication. This though is only temporary. The recommended dose is only at 80mg a day.
Side Effects: Gastrointestinal, allergic, cardiovascular and respiratory side effects among some may occur in some individuals taking dicyclomine. These include dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, drowsiness, blurred vision, rash, itching, urinary retention, palpitations, asphyxia, decreased sweating and sneezing.
Precautions: If you have or ever had glaucoma, ulcerative colitis, prostatic hyperplasia, difficulty urinating, heartburn, myasthenia gravis, high blood pressure, heart failure and liver, kidney or heart disease, you need to inform your doctor about these conditions before taking dicyclomine. Your treatment may need to be adjusted as to not affect or aggravate those conditions. You also need to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant during the treatment. It is especially harmful in breastfeeding as the drug may be excreted in breast milk.
Drug Interaction: Certain medications may interact with dicyclomine and affect the action of the anticholinergic. Before taking dicyclomine, inform your doctor of any other medicine that you are taking. Medications that may interact include the following: amantadine, antacids, antidepressants, antihistamines, diet pills, digoxin, ipatropium, isosorbide, metoclopramide, MAO inhibitors, narcotic pain relivers, sedatives, sleeping pills and tranquilizers. Medications for anxiety, asthma, glaucoma, irregular heartbeat, mental illness, Parkinson’s disease, seizures, ulcers and urinary problems may also interact with dicyclomine.
Overdose: Headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, dilated pupils, hot, dry skin, dizziness, dry mouth, difficulty in swallowing and CNS stimulation are the symptoms exhibited in dicyclomine overdose. Get immediate medical attention in case of an overdose.
Notes: Keep all your doctor’s appointments. Don’t let anyone take your medication.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as possible. Do not wait until the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next one, just skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up your doses.
Important Note: Until you know how dicyclomine affects you, refrain from doing activities that require mental alertness like driving. Alcohol can also add to the drowsiness that is caused by dicyclomine.
Storage: Keep dicyclomine in a tightly closed container. It is best to keep it in the container it came with and away from moisture and heat. Store it at room temperature.
Additional Dicyclomine information:
RxList provides a detailed description of dicyclomine side effects and precautions.
