Hyoscine butylbromide, also known as scopolamine butylbromide, is a medication used to reduce stomach cramps and spasms, to prevent nausea and vomiting, and to treat some types of irritable bowel syndrome. It is sometimes used to treat motion sickness. It is taken by mouth or injection into a muscle. Common side effects include dry mouth, headache, confusion, and dizziness. It may also cause hallucinations. It is not recommended in those with glaucoma, ulcerative colitis, or myasthenia gravis. It is unclear if use during pregnancy is safe for the baby. It works by blocking acetylcholine receptors. Hyoscine butylbromide was patented in 1924 and came into medical use in 1933. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. In the United States the wholesale cost per dose is about 0.34 USD as of 2019. In the United Kingdom it costs the NHS about 0.05 GBP per dose.
Hyoscine butylbromide, also known as scopolamine butylbromide, is a medication used to treat cramps and pain caused by spasms in smooth muscles. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
Type of drug: Antimuscarinic antispasmodic [1, 8].
Uses:
- Relieving cramps in the stomach, intestines, bladder, and ureter [1, 8, 9].
- Easing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) [5, 8].
- Reducing pain from conditions like biliary colic and renal colic [9].
- Decreasing excessive respiratory secretions at the end of life [9].
How it works: Hyoscine butylbromide works by relaxing smooth muscles in the digestive and urinary systems. It achieves this by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in these muscles [7, 9].
Forms: Hyoscine butylbromide is usually available as tablets, but it can also be administered through injection into a muscle or vein [9].
Brand names: Buscopan is a common brand name for hyoscine butylbromide, but other brands may exist depending on your location [5, 9].
Side effects: While generally well-tolerated, some common side effects include dry mouth, dry skin, drowsiness, and blurred vision [3, 6, 10].
Warnings and precautions:
- It's important to consult a doctor before taking hyoscine butylbromide, especially if you have glaucoma, urinary retention, or heart problems [3, 10].
- This medication can cause drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery while taking it [3, 10].
- Hyoscine butylbromide may not be suitable for everyone, and the appropriate dosage can vary depending on the condition being treated. Always follow your doctor's instructions [5, 10].
Remember, I cannot provide medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about hyoscine butylbromide, it's important to consult a healthcare professional.