Uses

Dicyclomine hydrochloride is an antispasmodic and anticholinergic agent indicated for the treatment of functional bowel/irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to relieve smooth muscle spasm of the gastrointestinal tract.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in infants under 6 months, nursing mothers, patients with unstable cardiovascular disease, myasthenia gravis, glaucoma, obstructive uropathy, obstructive gastrointestinal disease, and severe ulcerative colitis.

Side effects

Adverse effects relate to antimuscarinic activity and include dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, urinary retention, constipation, and tachycardia. Serious reactions include psychosis and respiratory arrest at high doses.

Warnings

Risk of heat prostration (fever and heat stroke from decreased sweating) in high temperatures. Discontinue therapy if psychosis or confusion occurs. Use caution when driving or operating machinery due to drowsiness and blurred vision. Avoid use in patients with autonomic neuropathy.

How it works

Dicyclomine relieves gastrointestinal smooth muscle spasm through a dual mechanism: anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) blockade at acetylcholine receptors with approximately one-eighth the potency of atropine, and a direct antispasmodic effect on smooth muscle independent of autonomic innervation.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 20–25°C. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children.