Bentyl

Generic name: Dicyclomine hydrochloride

What is Bentyl?

Bentyl is used to treat functional bowel/irritable bowel syndrome (abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea and constipation associated with stress).

What is the most important information I should know about Bentyl?

Using this drug in hot weather can result in heat prostration (fever and heat stroke due to decreased sweating). If symptoms of heat prostration occur, stop taking the drug and notify your doctor immediately.

Who should not take Bentyl?

Do not take Bentyl if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. Do not take this drug if you have a blockage of the urinary tract, stomach, or intestines; severe ulcerative colitis (inflammatory disease of the large intestine); reflux esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus usually caused by the backflow of acid stomach contents); glaucoma; or myasthenia gravis (a disease characterized by long-lasting fatigue and muscle weakness).

Do not use Bentyl in infants less than 6 months of age.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Bentyl?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Bentyl. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have autonomic neuropathy (a nerve disorder); liver or kidney disease; hyperthyroidism; high blood pressure; coronary heart disease; congestive heart failure; rapid, irregular heartbeat; hiatal hernia (protrusion of part of the stomach through the diaphragm); or enlargement of the prostate gland. Tell your doctor if you are sensitive to anticholinergic drugs or if you have had an ileostomy or colostomy performed.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dosage is 160 milligrams (mg) per day, divided into 4 equal doses. Since this dose is associated with a significant incidence of side effects, your doctor may recommend a starting dose of 80 mg per day, divided into 4 equal doses. If no side effects occur, your doctor will then increase the dose.

How should I take Bentyl?

Take Bentyl exactly as your doctor prescribes. The safety of Bentyl for doses above 80 mg daily, taken for periods longer than two weeks, is not known. If Bentyl is not effective within two weeks or side effects require doses below 80 mg per day, your doctor should discontinue the drug.

What should I avoid while taking Bentyl?

Bentyl may produce drowsiness or blurred vision. Avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as operating a motor vehicle or other machinery, or performing hazardous work while taking this drug.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Bentyl?

If Bentyl is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Bentyl with the following: amantadine, antiarrhythmic agents, antiglaucoma drugs, antihistamines, antipsychotic drugs, benzodiazepines, corticosteroids, MAO inhibitors, narcotic analgesics, nitrates and nitrites, sympathomimetic agents, tricyclic antidepressants, and other drugs with anticholinergic activity.

What are the possible side effects of Bentyl?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, light-headedness, nausea, nervousness, weakness

Can I receive Bentyl if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Bentyl during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor. Do not use Bentyl if you are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Bentyl?

If you miss a dose of Bentyl, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

How should I store Bentyl?

Store at room temperature, preferably below 86°F. Keep tablets out of direct sunlight. Keep syrup away from excessive heat.