Antispasmodic

Antispasmodic reduce muscle spasms in the digestive or urinary tract and reduce fluid secretions from certain glands or organs. The belladonna alkaloids included in this medication include atropine, hoscyamine, and scopolamine.

They help to reduce the symptoms of stomach and intestinal cramping by slowing the natural movements of the gut and by relaxing the muscles in the stomach and intestines.

Another component of this combination medicine is phenobarbital, which is in a group of drugs called barbiturates. It acts on the brain to produce a calming effect.

Belladonna alkaloids and phenobarbital combination are often used to treat irritable bowel syndrome and ulcers in the intestine. It may also be used for other purposes decided by your physician.

You can get this product only with your doctor's prescription. Following dosage forms are available in the market:

• Capsule
• Elixir
• Liquid
• Tablet
• Tablet, Extended Release

Before using Antispasmodic, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. The suitable drug therapy is chosen by a doctor with the active participation of the patient.

There are some important factors such as drug interactions, the presence of any metabolic impairment, history of hypersensitivity reaction, pregnancy, lactation etc. that may alter the desired therapeutic effects of a medicine.

Sometimes the presence of other health disorders affects the beneficial effects of this combination medicine and even may cause serious toxic effects. The use of this medicine is contraindicated in those who have had known hypersensitivity reactions to any component of this combination drug.

Before taking this medication, make sure you tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs or if you have:

• Asthma
• Emphysema
• Enlarged prostate
• Glaucoma
• Heart disease
• Intestinal blockage
• Ulcerative colitis
• Urinary tract blockage or difficult urination
• Down's syndrome
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease

In addition, certain medicines should not be used along with this medicine. It is always recommended to consult with your doctor if you are in need of some other medications or even any over-the-counter medicine for another health problem in order to avoid unwanted toxic effects.

Studies over animal have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of this medicine in pregnant women despite potential risks.

To use Antispasmodic properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. The dosage schedule and the duration of drug therapy depend on the particular medical problem for which you are going to use this medicine. The therapeutic dose may also vary with the patient’s condition or requirement and the strength of the medicine as well.

However, different preparations and doses for stomach or intestinal problems are listed below:

For oral dosage forms (capsules or tablets):

• Adults, and teenagers —1 or 2 capsules 2 to 4 times a day. Your doctor may adjust the dose if needed.
• Children—dose must be determined by your doctor.

For oral dosage form (solution):

• Adults and teenagers—1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 ml) 3 or 4 times a day. Your doctor may adjust the dose if needed.
• In the case of children—dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 0.5 to 7.5 mL every 4 to 6 hours. Your doctor may adjust the dose if needed.

For oral dosage form (chewable tablets):

• Adults, and teenagers—1 or 2 tablets 3 or 4 times a day. Your doctor may adjust the dose if needed.
• Children 2 to 12 years of age—one-half to 1 tablet 3 or 4 times a day. Your doctor may adjust the dose if needed.
• Children up to 2 years of age—use is not recommended.

For long-acting oral dosage form (extended-release tablets):

• Adults, and teenagers—1 tablet every 8 to 12 hours. Your doctor may adjust the dose if needed.
• Children—use is not recommended.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. But when it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule as prescribed.

Further, it is advised to store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and direct light. All kinds of medicines should be kept out of the reach of children. However, outdated medicines should be disposed of by an appropriate way.

In using Antispasmodic, you must be careful and take some precautions as advised by your doctor. Following guidelines should be followed:

• During medication, you should be regularly on checkup for prognosis as sometimes some metabolic defect may cause less effectiveness.
• This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants. Thus, you should avoid these during this drug therapy.
• Belladonna alkaloids are less effective when this medicine is taken within 1 hour of taking antacids or medicine for diarrhea.
• Unusual excitement, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, unusual warmth, dryness, and flushing of skin are more likely to occur in children.
• In the case of child medication of it, the doctor should be more careful especially those with spastic paralysis or brain damage.
• This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as anxiety, muscle twitching, shakiness, dizziness, worsening weakness, nausea, vomiting) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually.
• Along with its benefits, this medication may rarely cause abnormal drug-seeking behavior i.e. drug addiction. This risk may be increased if you have abused alcohol or drugs in the past. Thus, take this medication exactly as prescribed to lessen the risk of addiction.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Antispasmodic. Dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, blurred vision, dry eyes, dry mouth, nausea, constipation, and abdominal bloating may occur.

These side effects usually go away during the treatment episode as your body adjusts to the medicine. Moreover, your healthcare professional may advise you about the ways how to prevent or reduce those unwanted side effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

Sometimes you may need to consult with the doctor immediately if you notice any of the following toxic effects, especially:

• Decreased sweating
• Dry/hot/flushed skin
• Fast/irregular heartbeat
• Loss of coordination
• Slurred speech
• Fainting
• Mental/mood changes (e.g. confusion, agitation, depression)
• Vision changes
• Slow/shallow breathing
• Unusual tiredness
• Pale skin
• Signs of infection (e.g. fever, persistent sore throat
• Easy bruising/bleeding
• Allergic reactions (e.g. rash, itching, swelling)