Pyridostigmine bromide

It is an orally active cholinesterase inhibitor. It is characterized by a longer duration of action and fewer gastrointestinal side effects. It inhibits the destruction of acetylcholine by cholinesterase and there by permits free transmission of nerve impulses across the neuromuscular junction.

Indications

Myasthenia gravis, paralytic ileus and postoperative urinary retention, constipation with Parkinson's disease and nevre gas poisoning. It is ideal to control the muscle movements of eyes, cheeks and lips where voluntry control is lost.

Dosage

In the treatment of myasthenia gravis usually in total daily doses of 0.3 to 1.2 g. Dose for children is 7 mg per kg body-weight daily in 5 or 6 divided doses, 60 to 240 mg in the treatment of paralyticileus and postoperative urinary retention. 60mg up to 3 times daily has been used to relieve severe constipation in patients with Parkinson's disease. 30mg of it every 8 hours provides the optium level of protection against nerve gas piosoning and although adverse effects are common at this dosage

Contra-Indications

Mechanical intestinal or urinary obstruction and particular caution should be used in its administration to patients with bronchial asthma.

Special Precautions

In patients who have undergone recent intestinal or bladder surgery. Cardiovascular disorders including arrhythmias bradycardia, and hypotension as well as in patients with vagotonia, hyperthyroidism, bronchial asthma or peptic ulcer.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, increased peristalsis, increased salivation, increased bronchial secretions, miosis and diaphoresis.

Drug Interactions

Store protected from light and moisture.