Dicycloverine (Dicyclomine)

Dicycloverine also known as dicyclomine is a mild anticholinergic antispasmodic drug which has direct muscle relaxant properties it is used in combination preparations that treat gastro-intestinal disorders such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Dicycloverine can also be used for indigestion disorders not associated with ulcers and can also be given to babies older than 6 months to treat colicky conditions. Although Dicycloverine can be used to relieve conditions including indigestion, flatulence and diarrhoea it does not cure the underlying condition. Your doctor would be likely to suggest additional treatment with other drugs as well as expecting you to self-help maybe in areas such as dietary changes, exercise, stress free. (if that is ever possible).

The main causes for functional disorders include taking medicines such as antidepressants, strong pain killers and iron pills, dairy products, a diet low in fibre, lack of exercise and changes in your daily routine. These are just some of the areas that can lend themselves to gastro-intestinal disorders.

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Quick Guide

• Drug for irritable bowel syndrome with overdose danger – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES. (no for dosage less than 10mg)
• Available as generic – NO.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Alcohol may increase sedative effect of dicycloverine.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted side effects.

Common: Side effects are rare.
Rare: Dry mouth, Blurred vision, Headache, Drowsiness, Dizziness, Constipation, Palpitations, difficulty passing water.

Note:Side effects with dicyclomine are considered rare, however it can cause a range of anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth, nausea and at higher doses, deliriant effects, but for most individuals adverse effects are not noticeable. The delirium experienced is characterized by stupor, utter confusion, confabulation. It may be possible to eliminate adverse effects by reducing the dosage or your symptoms or they may disappear as your body adjusts to dicycloverine. the body adapting to the drug also holds true for other drugs that may cause unwanted side effects.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

There would be no problems expected when taken over a long period of time.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

You need to be aware that dicycloverine can cause drowsiness as well as blurred vision in the initial stages so driving and operating machinery needs to be avoided, until you know how this drug affects you. Alcohol also needs to be avoided as this may increase the sedative effects of dicycloverine.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

There is no evidence of risk as far as pregnancy is concerned. However, the drug may pass into the breast milk. You would need to discuss both of these issues with your doctor.

Dicycloverine is classified as a Pregnancy Category B Medicine. Category B… Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60’s & Children

Because the elderly are more prone to suffer anticholinergic side effects a reduced dose would be necessary. A reduced dose would be necessary for children. This medication is not suitable for infants under 6 months.

Overdose

An unintentional extra dose would be unlikely to cause problems however, a large overdose may cause headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, dilated pupils, hot dry skin, dizziness; dry mouth, difficulty in swallowing. Notify your doctor immediately.

Other Medication Reactions

All drugs that have a sedative effect on the nervous system may possibly increase the sedative properties of dicycloverine. It is also possible that anticholinergic drugs may increase any adverse effects dicycloverine may produce.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Ideally you would have already checked with your doctor. Failing this ring the surgery or check next time you see your doctor.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

This drug can be stopped without causing problems when it is no-longer needed.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

The drug may be felt within 1 to 2 hours. It lasting abilities is between 4 and 6 hours.

Storage and Safety

• Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted medication / drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines / drugs to your pharmacist.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.