Drug reference

Dicyclomine

Antimuscarinic · Gastro-intestinal antispasmodic

Also known as Dicycloverine hydrochloride, Dicyclomine hydrochloride

AntimuscarinicGastro-intestinal antispasmodicATC A03AA07

CDSCO approvedOTCATC A03AA07

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

4 major

SEVERE in our sources

PREGNANCY

Not known to be harmful; manufacturer advises use only if essential.

FDA category + note

Top interactions

Potassium ChlorideSevereDatabaseDDInter
Potassium CitrateSevereDatabaseDDInter
TopiramateSevereDatabaseDDInter
ZonisamideSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Dicyclomine hydrochloride has a less marked antimuscarinic action and may also have some direct action on smooth muscle. It reduces intestinal motility.

Indications

Symptomatic relief of gastro-intestinal disorders characterised by smooth muscle spasmIrritable bowel syndromeDiarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)IBS (to prevent pain and fecal urgency)DysmenorrhoeaIrritable bowelMorning sicknessMotion sicknessprophylaxis of motion sickness

Dosing

Adult: 10–20 mg 3 times a day
Pediatric: Child 6–23 months: 5–10 mg 3–4 times a day, dose to be taken 15 minutes before feeds; Child 2–11 years: 10 mg 3 times a day; Child 12–17 years: 10–20 mg 3 times a day
Max dose: 60 mg daily

Contraindications

Child under 6 months
Paralytic ileus
Colitis
Reflux esophagitis
Bowel obstruction
Not recommended below 6 months of age (infants have exhibited atropinic toxicity symptoms)

Side effects

Common

Appetite decreasedFatigueThirstAntimuscarinic adverse effects similar to atropine (including constipation-dominant IBS)DizzinessDry mouthNauseaBlurred vision

Serious