What Is Hyoscyamine Used For?

Hyoscyamine is a member of the anticholinergics and antispasmodics" drug class. These medications are known for their abilities to calm nerves and relax over-stimulated muscles. For this reason, hyoscyamine works well in relieving the cramping that is associated with certain medical conditions. But hyoscyamine can also potentially prevent pain and cramping if taken at least 45 minutes prior to eating.

• Hyoscyamine may be injected before a surgical procedure.

What is Hyoscyamine?

• Hyoscyamine, also known as hyoscyamine sulfate, is a multi-purpose prescription medication that blocks the functions of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that is found in the smooth muscle of the nervous system. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, hyoscyamine also limits the amount of secretions that are produced by the glands in the human body, promotes cardiovascular strengthening, and inhibits the functions of serotonin and histamines.

What Does Hyoscyamine Treat?

• According to MedicineNet.com, hyoscyamine is successful in the treatment of stomach and gastrointestinal tract conditions such as, ulcers. It is also useful in the treatment of diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis and pancreatitis. The medication's abilities to block secretions also make it useful in the treatment of sinusitis.

Children and the Elderly

• Hyoscyamine is sometimes prescribed for children who experience uncontrollable bed wetting and elderly patients who suffer from incontinence. But the Mayo Clinic stress that it is important to be extra cautious when administering hyoscyamine to these age groups. Children can experience excitability, sun sensitivity, fever, irritability, dryness and flushing of the skin. Elderly patients can also experience excitability, but may also feel fatigued, drowsy, agitation and constipation. They may also have trouble urinating and develop dry mouth.

Hyoscyamine Injections

• Hyoscyamine is sometimes administered to patients prior to surgery. The drug is given by injection and works to prevent bodily secretions during operating procedures. According to Medscape.com, hyoscyamine is also helpful in preventing heart arrhythmias and other cardiac irregularities while a patient is under anesthesia.

Who Should Not Take Hyoscyamine?

• Hyoscyamine is not a medication that can be taken by everyone. In fact, Drugs.com explains that patients who have kidney disease, urinary or prostate problems, intestinal blockages, glaucoma or a history of neuromuscular disease, should not take hyoscyamine. Pregnant women should also avoid hyoscyamine medications because of the potential harm that it may cause to the unborn fetus.