Hyoscine butylbromide, also known as scopolamine butylbromide, is a medication used to treat various conditions such as motion sickness, cramps of the uterus and stomach muscles, and to reduce secretions from the salivary glands, respiratory tract, and intestines.
Uses
Hyoscine butylbromide is used to treat motion sickness, cramps, and secretions from the salivary glands, respiratory tract, and intestines. It may also be used in the pre-operative and post-operative setting as an anti-emetic to prevent vomiting and other symptoms of nausea.
Hyoscine butylbromide works by inhibiting acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for stimulating muscles. This leads to blocking of parasympathetic nerve impulses to the salivary, respiratory, and gastrointestinal tracts, leading to decreased secretions in all three areas. This also helps to control motion sickness by decreasing the signals of nausea and vomiting.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
The effects of hyoscine butylbromide usually start within 30 minutes and last up to 4-6 hours.
Absorption
Hyoscine butylbromide is rapidly absorbed after oral administration.
Route of Elimination
Hyoscine butylbromide is mostly eliminated through the kidneys as metabolites.
Dosage and Administration
Hyoscine butylbromide is available in oral tablets or capsules.
The dosage will depend on the individual’s condition and age.
For motion sickness or pre or postoperative treatment, adults may take 2 to 4 tablets per day with meals and children may take 1 tablet per day. In the case of cramps, adults may take 2 tablets three times per day and children may take 1 tablet three times per day.
Side Effect
The most common side effects of hyoscine butylbromide include dry mouth, blurred vision, drowsiness, dizziness, and constipation.
Toxicity
Hyoscine butylbromide is a relatively safe medication with few toxic effects even in large doses. However, in cases where there is an overdose, the side effects can be very serious. Symptoms include restlessness, loss of vision, hallucinations, and convulsions.
Precautions
Patients being treated with Hyoscine butylbromide should be monitored closely as it may increase the effects of alcohol and other central nervous system depressants. The elderly should use this medication with caution as they may be more sensitive to its effects.
Interactions
Hyoscine butylbromide should not be taken with MAO inhibitors or muscle relaxants as this may increase the effects of these drugs. Additionally, there may be an increased risk of toxicity if taken with other medications, such as blood pressure medications, antihistamines, certain antibiotics, and antipsychotics.
Disease Interactions
Hyoscine butylbromide should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, including glaucoma, enlarged prostate, myasthenia gravis, respiratory depression, kidney or liver disease, psychiatric conditions, and bladder obstruction.
Drug Interactions
Hyoscine butylbromide may interact with alcohol, narcotics, MAO inhibitors, muscle relaxants, certain antibiotics, and antipsychotics. Patients should also be aware that certain drugs, such as blood pressure medications, may also interact with hyoscine butylbromide.
Food Interactions
Hyoscine butylbromide taken with food may be more effective than taken on an empty stomach.
Pregnancy and Lactation Use
Hyoscine butylbromide should be used with caution during pregnancy and nursing mothers should not take this medication.
Acute Overdose
Symptoms of an acute overdose include restlessness, delirium, blurred vision, peripheral cyanosis, respiratory depression, convulsions, and death if not treated immediately.
Contraindications
Hyoscine butylbromide is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the medication, and in patients with glaucoma and urinary blockages.
Dose Directions
The dosage of Hyoscine butylbromide depends on the individual’s condition and age. For motion sickness or pre or postoperative treatment, adults may take 2 to 4 tablets per day with meals and children may take 1 tablet per day. In the case of cramps, adults may take 2 tablets three times per day and children may take 1 tablet three times per day.
Storage Conditions
Hyoscine butylbromide should be stored at room temperature.
Volume of Distribution
Hyoscine butylbromide is distributed mainly in the liver, spleen, kidneys and intestines.
Half Life
The half-life of hyoscine butylbromide is about 16 hours.
Clearance
Hyoscine butylbromide is mainly eliminated through the kidneys via renal clearance.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Hysomide Tablet 20 mg
1. What is hyoscine butylbromide?
Hyoscine butylbromide is an antispasmodic drug that relaxes smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal, biliary, and urinary tracts to relieve spasms and associated pain.
2. What is hyoscine butylbromide used for?
It is used to treat:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Abdominal cramps
Spasms of the stomach, intestines, or bile ducts
Bladder spasms
Menstrual cramps (in some cases)
3. How does hyoscine butylbromide work?
It blocks muscarinic receptors, reducing smooth muscle contractions and relieving spasms in the gut and other organs.
4. Is hyoscine butylbromide a prescription drug?
It’s available over-the-counter (OTC) in some countries (e.g., 10 mg tablets) and by prescription for higher doses or injections.
5. Who can take hyoscine butylbromide?
It’s suitable for adults and children over 6, but not for those with glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, or certain bowel obstructions.
6. How is hyoscine butylbromide taken?
It is available as oral tablets, or as an injection (administered by a healthcare provider) for severe cases.
7. What is the typical dosage of hyoscine butylbromide?
Dosage varies:
Adults: 10-20 mg tablets, 3-4 times daily
Children (6-12): 10 mg, 3 times daily
Injection: 20 mg IV/IM, repeated as needed (by a doctor)
8. How long does hyoscine butylbromide take to work?
Oral tablets work within 15-30 minutes; injections act faster, within 5-10 minutes.
9. Can hyoscine butylbromide be taken long-term?
It’s usually for short-term relief; long-term use should be monitored by a doctor due to side effects.
10. Does hyoscine butylbromide treat infections?
No, it relieves symptoms like spasms but doesn’t treat underlying infections.
11. What are the common side effects of hyoscine butylbromide?
Common side effects include:
Dry mouth
Blurred vision
Constipation
Drowsiness
12. Can hyoscine butylbromide cause drowsiness?
Yes, drowsiness is possible, though less common than with hyoscine hydrobromide (used for motion sickness).
13. Does hyoscine butylbromide affect the eyes?
It may cause blurred vision or difficulty focusing due to its anticholinergic effects.
14. Can hyoscine butylbromide be taken with food?
Yes, it can be taken with or without food; food doesn’t significantly affect absorption.
15. What happens if I miss a dose of hyoscine butylbromide?
Take it as soon as you remember unless it’s near the next dose; then skip it. Don’t double up.
16. Can I overdose on hyoscine butylbromide?
Yes, overdose may cause severe dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, or confusion; seek medical help if suspected.
17. Is hyoscine butylbromide safe during pregnancy?
It’s not recommended unless prescribed by a doctor; limited data suggests caution, especially in the first trimester.
18. Can breastfeeding mothers take hyoscine butylbromide?
It’s not advised unless necessary; small amounts may pass into breast milk—consult a doctor.
19. Does hyoscine butylbromide interact with other medications?