Neostigmine
Information about Neostigmine
Neostigmine uses
Neostigmine is used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, paralytic ileus, post-operative urinary retention and reversal of effect of skeletal muscle relaxant after surgery.
How neostigmine works
Neostigmine is a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor. It increases the level of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger in the brain, by suppressing acetylcholinesterase (enzyme). This acetylcholine further triggers muscle contracting receptors which helps in muscle contraction.
Common side effects of neostigmine
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Excessive salivation, Slow heart rate, Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), Headache, Increased sweating, Stomach cramp, Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Available Medicine for Neostigmine
Expert advice for Neostigmine
- Take it with food to avoid an upset stomach.
- Take it as per the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Overdosing can result in extreme muscle weakness.
- It may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it may worsen the side effects.
- Inform your doctor if you have an existing kidney problem, parkinson's disease, asthma, or stomach disorders.
Frequently asked questions for Neostigmine
Neostigmine
Q. Does Neostigmine treat myasthenia gravis? How long do I need to take it?
Neostigmine relieves the symptoms of myasthenia gravis but does not cure it. It does so by reducing and improving muscle weakness. The length of time for which you need to take Neostigmine will depend on your condition. Do not stop taking Neostigmine until and unless advised by your doctor, even if you start feeling better.
Q. How long does Neostigmine take to start working?
Neostigmine takes about 5 to 15 minutes to start working and remains effective for 2-4 hours.
Q. Is Neostigmine a steroid?
No, Neostigmine is not a steroid. It belongs to cholinesterase inhibitor group of medicines. Neostigmine work by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine.