Pyridostigmine

Molecule Description

Pyridostigmine belongs to the group of anti cholinesterase medicines. It is use

d for treating myasthenia gravis, which involves weakness or rapid fatigue of muscles.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Pyridostigmine

Myasthenia gravis
Constipation (paralytic ileus)
Inability to pass urine after an operation

Contraindications of Pyridostigmine

When should one not use Pyridostigmine

Allergy to this medicine
Obstructive condition of stomach or intestine
Urinary obstruction
Chronic cough
Recently had coronary blockage (heart attack)

Side effects of Pyridostigmine

Common side effects of this drug are:

Visual disturbance
Excessive watering of eyes
Irregular heartbeat
Low blood pressure
Fainting
Increased secretion of phlegm (mucus) than usual combined with constriction of the airways
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Stomach cramps
Rashes
Excessive sweating
Sudden urge to urinate

Precautions and Warnings of Pyridostigmine

Pregnancy

Can I take Pyridostigmine during pregnancy?

This medicine should be avoided during pregnancy. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Pyridostigmine while breastfeeding?

This medicine is secreted into breastmilk. To be taken if advised explicitly by your doctor.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Pyridostigmine?

It may cause visual disturbance and affect the ability to drive. Be cautious while driving.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Pyridostigmine?

Avoid alcohol consumption when taking this medicine.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

Tell your doctor if:
Have low blood pressure
Have a stomach ulcer
Have epilepsy
Have Parkinson’s disease
Have kidney problems
Heart disease
You are allergic to Pyridostigmine or any of the other ingredients
You have obstructive urinary or gastrointestinal issues
Respiratory illness (COPD, asthma)

Mode of Action of Pyridostigmine

How Does It Work?

Pyridostigmine is a cholinesterase inhibitor. It stops the excessive activity of cholinesterase , potentiates the concentration of acetylcholine and helps muscles to work correctly.

Interactions of Pyridostigmine

Interactions with other medicines

Steroids or other immunosuppressant medicines
Antimuscarinic medicines (e.g. Atropine, Hyoscine)
Medicines containing Methylcellulose
Muscle relaxants like Suxamethonium
Aminoglycoside Antibiotics
Medicines to treat irregular heartbeat

Interactions with food items

No specific food interactions reported.

Dosage of Pyridostigmine

Overdose

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, muscle weakness, hallucinations, irregular heart beat and unsteadiness. Seek emergency medical care in case of an overdose of t...

Missed a Dose

Take the missed dose as early as you remember. Skip the missed dose and do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Mansi Savla

B. Pharm, PharmD

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is it safe to take this medicine during pregnancy?

A: No, it is not advised to take this medicine during pregnancy. Take only if considered essential by your doctor.

Q: Does this medicine cause addiction?

A: No, this medicine is not addictive. Take it as prescribed by your doctor. Do not alter the dosage or duration of this medicine by yourself.

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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