Dicycloverine

What is Dicycloverine?

Dicycloverine is a medication used to treat spasms in the stomach or intestines, as well as other symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its active ingredient is dicycloverine hydrochloride, which is also known as dicyclomine.

IBS is a lifelong condition that involves various digestive issues. Symptoms may include stomach pain, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation, which can come and go or last for extended periods of time.

Dicycloverine can also be used for period pain, also known as dysmenorrhea. In this case, dicycloverine is sometimes prescribed in combination with other medications, such as paracetamol or mefenamic acid, to achieve the best possible results.

How does Dicycloverine work?

Dicycloverine hydrochloride works in two ways to help alleviate IBS symptoms:^[1]

1. It directly affects the smooth muscles in the stomach and intestines (gut), causing them to relax. This helps reduce sudden muscle contractions (spasms) and pain.
2. It blocks the chemical messenger acetylcholine from binding to muscarinic receptors on the smooth muscles in the stomach and intestines. This binding process is what triggers pain and spasms, so by stopping it, Dicycloverine alleviates the cramps, pain and other symptoms of IBS.

Because it helps reduce muscle spasms, Dicycloverine is a type of medicine known as an antispasmodic or spasmolytic. And because of its second mode of action, it is also an antimuscarinic or anticholinergic agent.

What doses of Dicycloverine are there?

Dicycloverine tablets come in two dosages: Dicycloverine 10mg and Dicycloverine 20mg. Adults are usually prescribed one or two Dicycloverine tablets taken three times a day.

If you want an alternative to tablets, you may find that Dicycloverine Hydrochloride 10mg/5ml Oral Solution is more convenient for you. The oral solution may also be labelled as Dicycloverine Hydrochloride 10mg/5ml Syrup.

Dicycloverine is also available as an intramuscular injection under the brand name Bentyl in the United States for patients who are 6 months or older.

How to take Dicycloverine

Always remember to follow your clinician’s instructions when taking Dicycloverine. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

• take Dicycloverine by mouth;
• swallow the tablets with a glass of water. If you’re taking the Dicycloverine hydrochloride 10mg/5ml Oral Solution, you may dilute your dose in a glass of water if you want to, but do this immediately before taking the medicine;
• you can take Dicycloverine before or after meals.

For Dicycloverine tablets, the usual dose is one or two Dicycloverine 10mg tablets, three times a day (up to a maximum dose of 60mg a day) for adults and children aged 12 or older.

For Dicycloverine hydrochloride 10mg/5ml Oral Solution, the usual dose is one or two 5ml spoonfuls (10–20mg), three times a day for adults.

Please note that if you have diabetes, it may not be safe for you to use Dicycloverine hydrochloride 10mg/5ml Oral Solution. This is because the solution contains sugars such as fructose, glucose and sucrose. It’s important to consult your doctor before taking this medicine to ensure it is suitable for you.

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Dicycloverine?

If you accidentally take more Dicycloverine tablets than prescribed, seek immediate medical attention by contacting your doctor or going to the nearest hospital. If you can, it would be helpful to bring the medication packaging or any unused tablets with you. This way, the doctor will know what medicine you have taken. You may experience some or all of the following symptoms:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea (feeling sick)
• Dry mouth or difficulty swallowing
• Blurred vision
• Hot dry skin

If you forget to take a dose of Dicycloverine, take it as soon as you remember (unless it’s almost time for your next dose). In this case, just skip the missed dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed one.

Always ask your doctor before stopping this medication. Don’t stop taking dicycloverine just because you feel better. If you stop, your pain and cramps may come back.