MESTINON

This medicine contains 60 mg of the active ingredient pyridostigmine, which belongs to a group of medicines called cholinesterase inhibitors. These medicines reduce the effects of cholinesterase (enzyme produced in our body that breaks down the acetylcholine). Acetylcholine is necessary for the proper action and strength of our muscles. This medicine is prescribed for the treatment of myasthenia gravis (disease that causes muscle weakness, and even paralysis), and for the treatment of rare forms of constipation (paralytic ileus) and inability to pass urine after an operation.

Is Pyridostigmine suitable for me?

Pyridostigmine is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to pyridostigmine or to other ingredients of this medicine
• if you are constipated or cannot urinate, unless your doctor has told you to use this medicine.

 In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding
• suffer from asthma or have other chest problems such as wheeziness, difficulty in breathing or chronic cough
• have recently had coronary obstruction (heart attack), have a slow heart beat or any other heart condition
• have low blood pressure
• have a stomach ulcer
• have epilepsy
• have Parkinson’s disease
• have kidney problems
• suffer from a condition called vagotonia (overactivity of the vagus nerve causes symptoms such as slow heart rate, low blood pressure, constipation, sweating and painful muscle spasms)
• have an overactive thyroid gland
• have had an operation to remove your thymus gland

Pyridostigmine interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Pyridostigmine?

This medicine is available in form of tablets.

You should take pyridostigmine exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

 The dose will depend on your condition, needs and age.

• For myasthenia gravis:
  • The usual dose for adults is 1/2 to 2 tablets (30 to 120 mg) to be taken five to six times daily or higher doses if needed.
  • For children under 6 years, the usual dose is 1/2 a tablet (30 mg). For children aged 6 to 12 years, the usual starting dose is 1 tablet (60 mg). The doctor will then gradually increase the dose. In children the total dose per day is usually 30 to 360 mg.
• For paralytic ileus (constipation) and post-operative inability to pass urine:
  • The usual adult dose is 1 to 4 tablets (60 to 240 mg) daily and
  • For children 1/4 to 1 tablet (15 to 60 mg) daily, depending on the needs of the patient.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Do not miss any doses and apply the medicine at the same time each day. Do not apply two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Pyridostigmine side effects?

Like all medicines pyridostigmine can cause side effects, including:

• visual disturbance, producing more tears than usual 
• an irregular heartbeat, heart block, low blood
• pressure, fainting
• producing more phlegm than usual combined with
• constriction of the airways
• feeling sick, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps,
• producing more saliva than usual
• rash
• excessive sweating
• muscle weakness and twitching, shaking, muscle
• cramps
• sudden, compelling urge to urinate.

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.