HYOSCYAMINE - SUBLINGUAL (hi-oh-SYE-uh-meen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
A-Spas-S/L, Hyosol/SL, Levsin/SL
USES
Hyoscyamine is used to treat a variety of stomach and intestinal tract disorders
such as peptic ulcers, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, colitis,
or pancreatitis. It is also used to control bed-wetting and frequent urination,
runny nose, symptoms of Parkinson's disease, and poisonings due to certain plants
and insecticides.
HOW TO USE
This medication may be taken orally, chewed or placed under the tongue and allowed
to dissolve. It may be taken with or without meals. Take this exactly as prescribed
by your doctor. Do not increase the dose or take it more frequently without
consulting your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while using this medication unless
your doctor directs you otherwise.
SIDE EFFECTS
This medication may cause flushing of the face, problems sleeping, headache,
blurred vision, drowsiness, increased sensitivity to light, constipation, dry
mouth, reduced sweating or thirst. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen,
inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: confusion, tremors, irregular
pulse, rapid heartbeat, difficulty urinating. In the unlikely event you have
an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms
of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble
breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor
or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart problems, glaucoma,
prostate or urinary problems, contact lens wear, stomach/abdominal/intestinal
problems, drug allergies. Because this medication may cause drowsiness, use
caution when driving or performing tasks requiring alertness. This medication
reduces sweating and may lead to heatstroke in hot weather. Use caution engaging
in strenuous activity in hot weather. Contact lens wearers may need to use appropriate
lubricating solutions if this medication causes drying of the eyes. Elderly
patients should use this medication with caution because they may be more sensitive
to its effects. Children should use this medication with caution because they
may be more sensitive to its effects. Hyoscyamine should be used only when clearly
needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This
drug may be excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all the medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription),
especially of: antacids, digoxin, phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine, promethazine),
antihistamines (found in many cough/cold medicines), ketoconazole, potassium
supplements, medications for Parkinson's disease, certain heart medicines (e.g.,
disopyramide, procainamide, quinidine), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline).
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency
room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include unusually dry mouth; excessive
thirst; nausea; vomiting; difficulty breathing; blurred vision; dilated pupils;
flushed, hot, dry skin; muscle weakness; unusual dizziness or drowsiness; restlessness;
disorientation; and seizures.
NOTES
Management of digestive disorders may often include lifestyle changes such as
increased exercise, change in diet, stop smoking and reduction of stress. Discuss
the benefits of lifestyle changes with your health care provider.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost
time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual
dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
MEDICAL ALERT
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment
information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).