Propanthene

Propanthene Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Propanthene is a brand name. Its generic name is Propantheline.

What is Propanthene?

Propanthene is an anticholinergic medication. It belongs to a group of medicines called antimuscarinics which blocks the effects of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the autonomic nervous system. Propanthene is primarily used to treat an overactive bladder, as well as certain gastrointestinal issues.

Uses of Propanthene

Propanthene is primarily used to treat an overactive bladder. It can also be used to improve muscle control in patients with neurological disorders, as well as to reduce cramping and spasms in the intestines. In addition, Propanthene can be used to lessen secretions in the digestive system, to treat urinary incontinence, and to treat an enlarged prostates in men.

Mechanism of Action

Propanthene works by inhibiting the effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, which helps the muscles in the bladder and intestines to relax and allows better muscle control. It also helps to reduce cramping, spasms, and secretions in the digestive system by blocking the action of acetylcholine.

How long does it take to work?

Propanthene usually takes 2 to 4 hours for it to start taking effect. The effects will last for 4 to 6 hours. However, this is an approximate range, and it can vary significantly from person to person.

Absorption

Propanthene is rapidly absorbed after oral administration with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 2 hours. It is completely and rapidly absorbed in the stomach. It is widely distributed to other body tissues, primarily in the liver, lungs, kidneys, and spleen, in addition to the intestinal walls.

Route of Elimination

Propanthene is eliminated mainly via the kidney. Approximately 50 to 60 percent of the drug is excreted in the urine within 24 hours of administration, while the other 40 percent is excreted in the feces.

Dosage, Administration, and Side Effects

The usual dose of propantheline for adults is 7.5 to 15 milligrams three to four times daily, taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. The dose can be increased up to 30 milligrams per day as needed. It should be taken with plenty of water to prevent esophageal irritation, or with a small amount of food for stomach protection. It should be administered exactly as prescribed by your doctor and dosage should not exceed 30 milligrams per day.

Common side effects may include dry mouth, nausea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, and confusion. If any of these side effects persist or become worse, contact your doctor immediately. Serious side effects may include fast/irregular heartbeat, difficulty urinating, rash, and difficulty breathing.

Toxicity

The toxic dose of propantheline varies. The estimated lethal dose (LD50) in humans is 1.8 to 2g/kg. Signs of toxicity may include seizures, hypotension, tachycardia, respiratory depression, coma, and death. If you experience any signs of toxicity, contact your doctor immediately.

Precautions

  • Propanthene may cause a decrease in sweating. If you experience a fever, contact your doctor immediately.
  • Propanthene should not be taken by pregnant women, as it can cause severe birth defects.
  • Propanthene should not be taken by nursing mothers, as it can pass through breast milk.
  • Propanthene may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
  • Propanthene should not be taken by people with narrow-angle glaucoma, severe ulcerative colitis, or myasthenia gravis.
  • Propanthene should not be taken by people taking a class of drugs called MAO inhibitors, as it can cause serious drug interactions.

Drug Interactions

Propanthene may interact with other medications you may be taking. This is why it is important to tell your doctor about all over-the-counter and prescription medications you are taking when you start taking Propanthene. Some drugs that may interact with Propanthene include those that are used for depression (SSRIs), drugs containing theadditive cimetidine, amantadine, anticholinergics, anticonvulsants, and other antimuscarinics

Food Interactions

Propanthene may interact with certain foods. Avoid taking Propanthene with alcohol, as it can make the side effects worse. Also, avoid taking Propanthene with caffeine or other stimulants, as these may increase your risk of side effects.

Pregnancy Use

Propanthene is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it may cause severe birth defects if taken during the first trimester of pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, speak to your doctor before taking this medication.

Lactation Use

Propanthene is excreted into breast milk, and is not recommended for use by nursing mothers.

Acute Overdose

In case of accidental overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of Propanthene overdose may include seizures, hypotension, tachycardia, respiratory depression, coma, and death.

Contraindications

Propanthene is contraindicated for use in people with narrow-angle glaucoma, severe ulcerative colitis, myasthenia gravis, and those taking a class of drugs called MAO inhibitors.

Use Direction

Propanthene should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose, as this can cause serious side effects and toxicity. The recommended dose is 7.5 to 15 milligrams three to four times daily, taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. The dose can be increased up to 30 milligrams per day as needed. Take the medication with plenty of water for esophageal protection, or with a small amount of food for stomach protection.

Storage Condition

Propanthene should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and in a tightly sealed container.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Propanthene is approximately 0.6 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of Propanthene is approximately 4.2 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of Propanthene is approximately 0.072 L/hr/kg.

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