Common Use

Mestinon contains pyridostigmine bromide and is used to treat myasthenia gravis. The medication works by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, which increases the effects of acetylcholine. This improves neuromuscular transmission, enhances gastrointestinal motility, increases muscle tone in the bladder and bronchi, and stimulates the secretion of exocrine glands. It can also cause bradycardia, miosis, and spasm of accommodation.

Dosage and Direction

For intestinal atony and atonic constipation, take 60 mg orally every 4 hours. For acute myasthenia gravis, the recommended dose is 60-180 mg, taken 2-4 times daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose as necessary. Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets. Never take a double dose. If you miss a dose, take your next dose at the usual scheduled time.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have asthma, kidney disease, hypotension, acute myocardial infarction, stomach or duodenal ulcers, bradycardia, diabetes, or a history of stomach surgery. Pregnant women should also consult their doctor before using this medication. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations.

Contraindications

Mestinon should not be used in patients with peritonitis, bladder or bowel obstruction, or those who have been treated with depolarizing muscle relaxants like suxametone or dekametone. It is also contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to Mestinon, iritis, asthma, obstructive ileus, gastrointestinal tract spasms, biliary or urinary tract spasms, myotonia, Parkinson's disease, thyrotoxicosis, or post-operative shock. Pregnant women should avoid this medication.

Possible Side Effects

Possible allergic reactions include hives, skin rash, difficulty breathing, and facial swelling. Serious side effects may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, extreme muscle weakness, vision problems, muscle cramps or twitching, low blood pressure, excessive salivation, frequent urination, bradycardia, miosis, convulsions, and exacerbation of myasthenia gravis.

Drug Interactions

Atropine can reduce the effects of Mestinon. When used with depolarizing muscle relaxants, barbiturates, or morphine derivatives, Mestinon may enhance their effects. It is contraindicated with ethanol. Medications like M-cholinoblockers, ganglioplegic drugs, quinidine, procainamide, local anesthetics, tricyclic antidepressants, antiepileptic drugs, and Parkinson's disease treatments may decrease the effectiveness of Mestinon.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, extreme muscle weakness, diarrhea, sweating, muscle cramps, intestinal colic, and involuntary defecation or urination. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Storage

Store Mestinon in a dry, tightly sealed container at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F), away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for general purposes only and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of this information and are not responsible for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from its use or self-treatment.