Side Effects of Pyridostigmine Bromide

Pyridostigmine Bromide is a cholinesterase inhibitor medication used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis. The medication works by fixing nerve impulses in muscles so that the muscle can function properly. As with most medications, there are a number of side effects that can come as a result of using this drug.

Before Using

• Certain medical conditions may interact negatively with pyridostigmine bromide and it is recommended to disclose a full medical history to your doctor before beginning treatment with this drug. Please tell your doctor especially if the following conditions apply: if you are pregnant, about to become pregnant, are breast feeding, if you have any food or medication allergies or if your have a history of heart problems.

Side Effects

• Some side effects include severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, tightening of the chest, hives, rash, swelling of the mouth and lips, fainting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, increased sweating, nausea, stomach cramps, small pupils and vision changes. Although these are considered the most common side effects associated with using the drug, only affect a small number of users.

Important Safety Information

• Pyridostigmine bromide has been known to cause dizziness and drowsiness in some users. As a result, it is highly recommended that users not operate any type of machinery while taking this medication. Be sure to consult with your doctor before you have any medical procedure throughout the course of your treatment to ensure that the procedure is safe while taking this medication. Use of this drug should be done with extreme caution in children younger than the age of 12.

Usage

• Always use this medication in direct conjunction with your doctor's orders and never in dosages larger than what has been recommended on the label. This medication is administered in tablet form and can be taken with or without food. If you experience an upset stomach when first taking the drug, try ingesting it at or around meal time. If you miss a dose of the medication, take the next one as soon as possible. However, users should never take two doses at the same time.

Warning

• If you experience any of the aforementioned side effects, contact your local doctor immediately.

  If an overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center and head directly to the nearest emergency room.

  Pyridostigmine bromide is meant for the above uses only and should never be used for any other medical purpose unless specifically prescribed by your doctor.