Pyridostigmine
Information about Pyridostigmine
Pyridostigmine uses
Pyridostigmine 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 pyridostigmine works
Pyridostigmine increases the levels of acetylcholine (chemical messenger) which allows free transmission of signals across the nerves and muscles.
Common side effects of pyridostigmine
Nausea, Diarrhea, Muscle cramp, Vomiting, Abdominal cramp, Frequent urge to urinate, Salivation, Pale skin, Muscle weakness, Confusion, Slow heart rate, Constriction of pupil, Lacrimation (flow of tears), Increased bronchial secretions, Muscle twitch, Tremors, Pain during periods, Lazy eye, Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), Depression, Sleep disturbance, Hair loss, Skin rash, Bowel incontinence, Loss of consciousness, Stiffness of the arms and legs, Thrombophlebitis, Urinary incontinence
Available Medicine for Pyridostigmine
Expert advice for Pyridostigmine
- You have been prescribed Pyridostigmine for treatment of myasthenia gravis.
- It may also be used to treat inactivity of the muscle in the intestines (paralytic ileus) and difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention) after an operation.
- 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 Pyridostigmine
Pyridostigmine
Q. Does Pyridostigmine cure myasthenia gravis? For how long do I need to take it?
Pyridostigmine helps reduce and improve muscle weakness and hence relieves the symptoms of myasthenia gravis but does not cure it. The length of time for which you have to take Pyridostigmine will depend on your needs. You should not stop taking Pyridostigmine until and unless advised by your doctor, even if you start feeling better.
Q. Is Pyridostigmine a steroid?
No, Pyridostigmine is not a steroid. It belongs to anticholinesterases group of medicines. Pyridostigmine works by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine.
Q. What should I do if I have accidentally taken more than the required dose?
You should immediately seek help at a nearby hospital or contact your doctor urgently. An excess dose of Pyridostigmine may cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, salivation, blurred vision, excessive weakness, difficulty in breathing and even paralysis.