Article by Nguyen Huy Khiem - Clinical Pharmacist, Pharmacy Department, Vinmec Times City International General Hospital
Buscopan is a muscle relaxant prescribed to relieve spasms in the gastrointestinal and/or urogenital tract, improving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and reducing spasm-related pain. For optimal efficacy, patients must follow the instructions provided by their doctor or pharmacist.
1. About Buscopan
Buscopan is a commonly used antispasmodic containing the active ingredient hyoscine butylbromide. Below are key details about the medication. In Vietnam, Buscopan is available in two main formulations for different routes of administration:
Injectable solution: Buscopan 20 mg/ml – Administered intramuscularly or intravenously (diluted with 0.9% NaCl or 5% Glucose solution, if necessary).
Tablets: Buscopan 10 mg – Administered orally.
2. Indications for Buscopan
Buscopan is prescribed to alleviate spasms in the gastrointestinal and/or urogenital tract, thus improving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and relieving spasm-related pain. The medication’s effects are relatively fast, occurring within 15 minutes when taken orally and even quicker when administered intravenously.
3. Dosage of Buscopan
Oral dosage:
- Adults: 1–2 tablets per dose, up to 4 times per day.
- Children over 6 years old: 1 tablet per dose, up to 3 times per day.
Injectable dosage:
- Adults: 20 mg per dose, which may be repeated every 30 minutes if necessary. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 100 mg.
4. Precautions When Using Buscopan
As a muscle relaxant, Buscopan must be used cautiously in pregnant and breastfeeding women, as there is limited information on its potential effects on the fetus or its presence in breast milk.
Possible side effects, particularly with the injectable form, include blurred vision, increased heart rate, dry mouth, and dizziness. When taken orally, Buscopan is minimally absorbed into systemic circulation (<8%) and primarily acts locally, reducing the risk of side effects.
Contraindications:
Buscopan should not be used in patients with:
- Narrow-angle glaucoma.
- Urinary retention caused by prostate enlargement.
- Intestinal paralysis or gastrointestinal obstruction.
Additionally, as the drug may cause vision-related side effects (e.g., blurred vision) or dizziness, patients should exercise caution when performing tasks requiring concentration, such as driving or operating machinery.
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