Dicyclomine

Synonym :

Dicycloverine

Mechanism :

Dicyclomine hydrochloride is an antispasmodic and anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) agent. Dicyclomine relieves smooth muscle spasm of the gastrointestinal tract. This action is achieved via a dual mechanism: (1) a specific anticholinergic effect at the acetylcholine-receptor sites and (2) a direct effect upon smooth muscle.

Indication :

Abdominal colic
Renal colic
Spasmodic dysmenorrhea
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Contraindications :

Contraindicated in obstructive uropathy, obstructive disease of the gastrointestinal tract, severe ulcerative colitis, reflux esophagitis, unstable cardiovascular status in acute hemorrhage, glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, evidence of prior hypersensitivity to dicyclomine hydrochloride, and infants less than 6 months of age.

Dosing :

IBS:

Infants >6 months:

5 mg orally 3-4 times a day; Max: 20 mg/day orally.

Children:

10 mg orally 3-4 times a day; Max: 40 mg/day orally.

To be taken half to one hour before meals.

Adverse Effect :

Dry mouth, thirst and dizziness, tachycardia, decreased sweating, blurred vision. Rarely, fatigue, sedation, constipation, urinary retention, rash, nausea, vomiting and headache.

Interaction :

Antihistamines Antipsychotic Agents, Benzodiazepines. MAO Inhibitors, Narcotic Analgesics, Nitrates and Nitrites, Sympathomimetic Agents, Tricyclic Antidepressants: Increase anti-cholinergic effects.
Antiglaucoma Agents: Anticholinergics antagonize the effects of antiglaucoma agents.
Metoclopramide: May antagonize the effects.

Hepatic Dose :

Specific guidelines are not available. Use with caution