Buscopan Side Effects

Buscopan is an anti-spasmodic medication used to relieve painful spasms in the stomach, intestines, bladder and reproductive system. The brand name for hyoscine butylbromide, Buscopan is prescribed for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and severe menstrual cramps. Many side effects are possible.

Function

• Buscopan works by relaxing the smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. It blocks receptors in the muscle cells called muscarinic or cholinergic receptors.

Common Side Effects

• The most common side effects associated with Buscopan are constipation, decreased perspiration, difficulty urinating, dry mouth, increased heart rate and nausea.

Caution

• Buscopan can cause pressure inside the eyeball, with symptoms calling for medical attention. They include blurred vision, loss of vision, painful eyes and seeing halos around lights. People with closed-angle glaucoma should not take Buscopan.

Contraindications

• Patients may not be able to safely take Buscopan if they have myasthenia gravis, megacolon, certain blood disorders, heart problems, or are susceptible to blockage of the intestines or urinary tract.

Drug Interactions

• Many drugs interact with Buscopan. They include certain antidepressants, anti-psychotics, antihistamines, other anti-cholinergic drugs, antacids, anti-diarrhea medicine, heart medications and muscle relaxants.