Bentyl Medication - Uses & Side Effects

Generic Name: Dicyclomine hydrochloride

DICYCLOMINE (Bentyl®) treats different bowel problems including such as irritable bowel syndrome. Dicyclomine is in a class of drugs known as anticholinergics. This drugs block the effects of acetylcholine, the chemical transmitter that nerves release in order to cause muscles to contract. They prevent contraction of the muscles by blocking the acetylcholine receptors on the muscle cells.

Bentyl Dosage

• The usual dosage is 160 milligrams per day divided into 4 equal doses. Since this dose is associated with a significant incidence of side effects, So your doctor may also recommend a starting dose of 80 milligrams per day divided into 4 equal doses. If no side effects appear, the doctor will then increase the dose.
• If Bentyl is not effective within 2 weeks or side effects require doses below 80 milligrams per day, then your doctor may discontinue it.

Uses of Bentyl

• Dicyclomine is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (an intestinal problem).
• Dicyclomine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Side Effects of Bentyl

If you are taking this medication, then discuss the side effects with your doctor. If you feel any change in intensity, then you should tell your doctor. Because only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Bentyl. Side effects may include:

• Blurred vision
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• light-headedness
• nausea
• nervousness
• weakness

Warnings and precautions before taking Bentyl:

• You should tell your doctor your medical history, especially if you have glaucoma, all stomach and intestinal problems, prostate trouble, problems urinating, blood pressure problems, contact lens wear, any allergies, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, liver disease.
• After taking bentyl, you may feel some sleepy, drowsy so you should use caution when driving or performing tasks requiring alertness.

Drug Interaction :-

If you are taking certain drugs with Bentyl, then it may decreased, increased or altered the effects of Bentyl medicine. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Bentyl with the following:

• Antihistamines such as Tavist
  
• Benzodiazepines (tranquilizers) such as Valium and Xanax
  
• Corticosteroids such as prednisone (Deltasone)
  
• Digoxin (the heart failure medication Lanoxin)
  
• Major tranquilizers such as Mellaril and Thorazine
  
• MAO inhibitors (antidepressants such as Nardil and Parnate)
  
• Metoclopramide (the gastrointestinal stimulant Reglan)
  
• Narcotic analgesics (pain relievers such as Demerol)
  
• Nitrates and nitrites (heart medications such as nitroglycerin)
  

Overdose

When you are taking Bentyl, and you feel that overdose is suspected then contact your doctor immediately. Symptoms of an Bentyl overdose may include:-

• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• dry mouth
• difficulty swallowing
• blurred vision
• seizures
• weak pulse
• an irregular heartbeat