Stress and stomach ache? Buscopan® helps quickly!

Stress is one of the most common causes of physical complaints, especially abdominal pain. Many people experience an unpleasant pulling sensation in their stomach during stressful times, which can have a major impact on everyday life. Fast and effective relief is therefore often welcome.

Buscopan® has established itself as a proven remedy for the treatment of abdominal pain. The medication has a targeted effect on various complaints, particularly cramps and pain in the abdomen. But how exactly does Buscopan®works and for which complaints can it be used?

In this article we will explain the mode of action of Buscopan®its indications and dosage guidelines. We will also provide important information on side effects, interactions and special precautions so that patients can make informed decisions about their health.

Effect

Buscopan® PLUS is a combined medicine specially developed for the treatment of cramp-like pain. It contains the active ingredients butylscopolamine and paracetamol, which act synergistically to effectively combat both muscle cramps and pain.

Butylscopolamine has a peripheral anticholinergic effect that targets the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, bile ducts and female reproductive organs. It binds to the muscarinic receptors and thus prevents the effect of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which leads to relaxation of the muscles. This is particularly important for cramp-like pain in the area of the uterus, as occurs with menstrual cramps.

Paracetamol, the second active ingredient in Buscopan® PLUSacts centrally by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the brain, which plays an important role in the perception of pain. This reduces pain signals, which leads to general pain relief.

The combination of these two active ingredients enables effective treatment of painful spasms and accompanying pain conditions. Caution should be exercised when used concomitantly with other drugs that have anticholinergic effects, as this may increase the anticholinergic side effects. Furthermore Buscopan® PLUS can increase the effect of β-sympathomimetics on the heartbeat, which must be taken into account when dosing and using it.

Intended use

Buscopan is a medication that is primarily used to relieve cramps. It is also used in the treatment of menstrual cramps and helps with mild to moderate pain in the gastrointestinal tract. In addition Buscopan is also used to support the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The active ingredient butylscopolamine, which is found in Buscopan belongs to the group of parasympatholytics and has an antispasmodic effect on the muscles.

Abdominal cramps

Buscopan® coated tablets are a medicine specifically developed for the relief of mild to moderate abdominal cramping pain. Such complaints may be due to stress, food intolerances or flatulence. The active ingredient hyoscine-N-butylbromide has an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract as well as the biliary and urinary tracts, which leads to pain relief.

One of the main benefits of Buscopan® is its rapid effectiveness: the lozenges usually start to work within 15 minutes of ingestion. This makes them a suitable choice for the rapid relief of cramping abdominal pain.

The Buscopan® Coated Tablets are gluten- and lactose-free, making them suitable for people with corresponding intolerances. They can be used by adults and children from the age of 6.

Buscopan plus paracetamol film-coated tablets are available for more severe abdominal pain. These combine the antispasmodic effect of Buscopan® with the analgesic properties of paracetamol.

However, it is important when using Buscopan® it is important to observe the recommended dose and to seek medical advice in the event of persistent or severe pain.

Menstrual pain

Menstrual cramps are often caused by cramps in the uterine muscles, which can lead to severe pain. Buscopan® PLUS is a medicine that has been developed to relieve these symptoms quickly and effectively. It contains the antispasmodic active ingredient butylscopolamine and paracetamol, which has an analgesic effect.

The combination of these two active ingredients in Buscopan® PLUS not only relieves muscle cramps, but also reduces the perception of pain. The medication can therefore provide rapid relief for acute menstrual cramps.

Women can Buscopan for menstrual pain to effectively treat symptoms such as cramping pain. Buscopan® is often recommended by sufferers looking for effective solutions to their menstrual pain.

Application and dosage:

• Observe the recommended dose
• Use in adults and according to medical advice

It is important to follow the recommended dose and always ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice if you have any questions or severe abdominal pain. When used correctly Buscopan® PLUS can help to significantly improve women's quality of life during menstruation.

Dosage guidelines

The exact dosage of Buscopan depends on the product and the individual needs of the patient. It is essential to follow the dosage instructions carefully and not to use the medication for longer than the recommended period.

• Buscopan coated tablets: The recommended dose for adults, adolescents and children over 6 years of age is 1 coated tablet if required. No more than 6 coated tablets should be taken within 24 hours. The coated tablets must be swallowed whole with sufficient liquid.
• Buscopan plus paracetamol: For adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over, it is recommended to take 1 to 2 film-coated tablets, not exceeding the maximum daily dose of 6 tablets.
• Buscopan suppositories: Adults and children from 6 years of age can use up to 10 suppositories per day, whereby the maximum daily dose of 100 mg butylscopolaminium bromide must not be exceeded.

Use beyond 3 to 5 days should only take place after consulting a doctor in order to minimize the risk of masking the causes of the symptoms.

Recommended dosage

In general, for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over, 1-2 tablets Buscopan can be taken as required. The maximum daily dose of 6 tablets must not be exceeded.

Children from the age of six may take 1 to 2 tablets one to three times a day. It is important that the maximum dosage of 60 mg per day is not exceeded.

When using Buscopan suppositories the maximum daily dose of 100 mg butylscopolaminium bromide should also not be exceeded.

For safety reasons, adults should Buscopan should not be used for longer than five days without medical advice to avoid overlooking potential underlying conditions.

Special dosage considerations

There are special considerations that must be taken into account when dosing Buscopan must be taken into account:

• Age restrictions: Buscopan should not be administered to children under 12 years of age, especially if the product contains paracetamol, as in the case of Buscopan Plus.
• Overdose: Too high a dose of Buscopan Plus can lead to serious liver and kidney damage due to the paracetamol content.
• Interactions with other medicines: If probenecid is taken at the same time, the Buscopan dosage should be reduced to compensate for the reduced excretion of paracetamol.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of Buscopan during pregnancy and breastfeeding should only be used after a strict risk-benefit assessment by the attending physician.

Persons with certain metabolic disorders, such as fructose or galactose intolerance, should Buscopan should not be taken. It is always advisable to seek medical advice whenever you are unsure about the dose or duration of use.

Side effects

Buscopan is a medicine that has an antispasmodic effect and is used to treat pain in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and female reproductive organs. As with any medicine, the use of Buscopan can lead to side effects. These vary in frequency and severity and not everyone is affected. While some side effects are categorized as occasional, others may occur rarely and some are serious in nature.

Common side effects

With the use of BUSCOPAN coated tablets various side effects may occur. The most common of these are skin reactions such as hives and itching. Dry mouth also often occurs as a side effect.

In addition, symptoms such as an accelerated heartbeat and disturbances in sweat gland activity can occasionally be observed. Although these side effects do not occur in everyone, they should be taken into account.

In rare cases, more serious side effects such as urinary retention or visual impairment may occur along with headaches.

There are also side effects whose frequency is not known, including shortness of breath and severe hypersensitivity reactions that can lead to anaphylactic shock. These serious side effects require immediate medical attention.

If you experience any of these symptoms, please seek medical advice immediately.

If you notice any side effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects

With the combination of paracetamol and Buscopan severe acute hypersensitivity reactions have been observed in rare cases, including cases of anaphylactic shock. In the event of such a reaction, immediate discontinuation of use and seeking medical advice is essential. Furthermore, severe skin reactions have been reported in connection with the use of paracetamol. If a skin rash occurs, it is important to stop use immediately and seek medical advice.

Side effects such as an excessive drop in blood pressure and hypersensitivity reactions can be not only unpleasant but also dangerous and require immediate medical attention. Hypersensitivity reactions such as urticaria, angioneurotic oedema and dyspnoea can also occur with the parenteral administration of butylscopolaminium bromide, an active substance in Buscopancan also occur.

The use of certain medicines, including Buscopanmay cause dizziness or drowsiness and thus impair the ability to operate machinery or participate in road traffic. In such cases, please refrain from potentially dangerous activities and seek medical advice.

Contraindications

The safety and efficacy of a drug depend largely on avoiding its use under certain conditions. Buscopan must not be taken by:

• Persons with glaucoma, as Buscopan can increase intraocular pressure and thus worsen the condition.
• Patients with known cardiac arrhythmias. As the drug has an effect on heart activity, it could lead to serious heart problems.
• People with heart failure should Buscopan as there is a risk of deterioration in heart function.
• Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should Buscopan should only use Buscopan after consulting a doctor, as the effects on the child have not been sufficiently researched.
• Patients with prostatic hyperplasia must avoid taking Buscopan, as it may exacerbate the enlargement of the prostate.

It is essential that these contraindications are observed to ensure patient safety and minimize risks.

Patients with special health problems

Buscopan is used to relieve cramp-like pain in diseases of the female reproductive organs and the gastrointestinal tract. However, there are certain health conditions for which the use of Buscopan should be avoided:

• Hypersensitivity: Buscopan must not be used if there is a known hypersensitivity to butylscopolaminium bromide or other components of the drug.
• Mechanical constrictions: Use is contraindicated in patients with mechanical constrictions in the gastrointestinal tract, such as those caused by tumors or intestinal kinking.
• Myasthenia gravis: People with this pathological muscle weakness should not take this medicine.
• Severe abdominal pain: If abdominal pain persists or worsens and is accompanied by fever or blood in the stool, medical advice should be sought immediately.
• Metabolic disorders: Patients with specific metabolic disorders, such as fructose intolerance or glucose-galactose malabsorption, should Buscopan only after consultation with a doctor.

It is imperative that patients consult a doctor before taking Buscopan ask their doctor or pharmacist for advice, especially if they belong to the groups mentioned above.

Interactions with medicines

The simultaneous use of BUSCOPAN and other anticholinergics may increase the anticholinergic effects of these drugs and thus increase the risk of side effects. If a patient BUSCOPAN together with other drugs that have similar effects, such as tiotropium or ipratropium, the peripheral anticholinergic effect may be enhanced. Such increased effects may include dry mouth, urinary retention and visual disturbances.

A combination of BUSCOPAN with dopamine antagonists such as metoclopramide can lead to a mutual weakening of the effects on the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, which can reduce the effectiveness of both drugs.

It is also known that BUSCOPAN can increase the effect of beta-sympathomimetics, which may result in an increased heart rate. This means that patients who are already taking drugs that accelerate the heart rate may require additional monitoring.

In addition, the intake of BUSCOPAN in combination with paracetamol and zidovudine may increase the risk of neutropenia. In such cases, joint use should only take place after medical advice.

To be on the safe side, patients should always consult their doctor or pharmacist before using BUSCOPAN especially if they are taking medication that affects gastric emptying, as this may reduce the effectiveness of BUSCOPAN may reduce the effectiveness of BUSCOPAN.

Medicines that should be avoided

When using BUSCOPAN certain medicines should be avoided for various reasons. BUSCOPAN must not be used in children under six years of age or in people with glaucoma, cardiac arrhythmia or tachycardia. It is contraindicated in patients with myasthenia gravis, a pathological muscle weakness, and in diseases that lead to a severely constricted urinary tract.

In addition, the use of BUSCOPAN is contraindicated in cases of severe liver or kidney damage and in diseases such as ileus or megacolon. Caution is advised when taking bronchodilators at the same time, as BUSCOPAN can cancel out or increase their effect.

The simultaneous use of drugs to correct intestinal motility, such as drugs containing metoclopramide, can impair the effect of both drugs and should be avoided.

Effects on other treatments

Buscopan may interfere with the effects of other treatments and should therefore be taken with caution. In particular, the concomitant use of anticholinergic drugs such as tiotropium or ipratropium may increase the anticholinergic effects of BUSCOPAN and lead to adverse effects that may require dose adjustment or discontinuation of the drug.

The intake of Buscopan together with dopamine antagonists such as metoclopramide should be avoided, as this can weaken the effect on the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. This may interfere with the planned therapy and worsen the patient's symptoms.

Doctors or pharmacists should be consulted before prescribing BUSCOPAN before prescribing BUSCOPAN in order to minimize the risk of interactions. Particular care should be taken when taking antidepressants and bronchodilators at the same time, as both groups of drugs are characterized by BUSCOPAN can influence their effect.

In principle, particular caution is required, as BUSCOPAN can cancel out or intensify the effects of other drugs that cause anticholinergic effects, which could complicate the management of various diseases.

Drugs to avoid

When using Buscopan there are certain medications and health conditions that must be taken into account to avoid risks and interactions:

• Not suitable for children under six years of age
• Contraindications:
• • Persons with glaucoma
  • cardiac arrhythmia or palpitations
  • Myasthenia gravis (pathological muscle weakness)
  • Diseases with severely constricted urinary tract
  • Severe liver or kidney damage
  • Ileus or megacolon

Caution is advised with concomitant use with:

• Bronchodilator drugs (effect may be canceled or enhanced)
• Drugs to correct intestinal motility, e.g. drugs containing metoclopramide (may influence the effect of both drugs)

In case of uncertainty or the presence of the above-mentioned conditions, the following should be considered before taking Buscopan always seek medical advice before taking Buscopan. Always observe the recommended dose and the interval until the next application as stated in the doctor's prescription or package leaflet.

Effects of Buscopan on other treatments:

Buscopan is a medicine that should be used with caution, especially in combination with other medicines. It is known to cause interactions when taken together with certain medicines.

In particular, bronchodilators and antidepressants may cause undesirable interactions. The simultaneous use of anticholinergics such as tiotropium or ipratropium can lead to an increase in the anticholinergic effects of Buscopan and influence the effect. It is also important to note that Buscopan should not be taken together with dopamine antagonists such as metoclopramide, as this can lead to an impaired effect on the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

To minimize risks, it is essential that doctors or pharmacists are informed of all medications a patient is taking before Buscopan is prescribed or recommended. This is necessary to reduce the risk of drug interactions and to ensure patient safety.

A general caution with Buscopan as it can influence the effects of other medications. Before using Buscopan medical advice should therefore always be sought.

Precautionary measures

Before using Buscopan® certain precautions should be taken to minimize health risks. It is particularly important that pregnant women or nursing mothers consult their doctor or pharmacist before taking the medicine, as there is insufficient experience of its use in this particular patient group. Abstaining from alcohol consumption during treatment with Buscopan® is recommended, as alcohol could influence the effect of the medication. In addition Buscopan® can influence the results of laboratory tests to determine uric acid and blood sugar levels. Although Buscopan® is virtually "sodium-free", this should be taken into account for people with dietary restrictions on sodium intake. Information on the impairment of the ability to drive and use machines due to Buscopan are not available.

Driving a vehicle

Caution should always be exercised when driving a vehicle or operating machinery, especially after taking medication. With BUSCOPAN, a medicine for spasmodic pain, is generally not expected to have any effect on the ability to drive when taken at the recommended dose. Nevertheless, in some cases side effects may occur that impair the ability to drive:

• Tiredness
• dizziness
• Disturbed near vision

Such symptoms can occur after oral and parenteral administration of butylscopolaminium bromide - the active ingredient in BUSCOPAN - can occur. Visual disturbances must be expected, especially after parenteral administration.

Patients should also be aware that taking BUSCOPAN for longer than five days may cause visual disturbances. BUSCOPAN without medical advice is not recommended. Prolonged self-medication could delay the diagnosis of other conditions that could also affect the ability to drive.

In case of side effects or uncertainty, it is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist for advice. The ability to drive or operate machinery may be impaired by the above-mentioned adverse effects.

Storage instructions

When using websites, you will often come across terms such as cookies and Local Storage Objects (LSO). Here is some basic information about LSOs:

Local Storage Objects are stored directly on your end device and, similar to cookies, can store various data during your browsing sessions. The main difference to cookies is that LSOs cannot be read by third parties, which represents a significant data protection advantage.

If you do not wish data to be stored locally, it is possible to adjust your browser settings to disable the use of LSOs. Please note, however, that this may affect the functionality of some websites, as certain features may no longer work correctly.

The content of Local Storage Objects and cookies is treated anonymously and does not contain any personally identifiable information.

Storage instructions:

• The saving of LSOs can be controlled via the browser settings.
• Rejecting LSOs and cookies can affect performance on websites.
• You can set your preferences for local storage objects via your browser's privacy settings.

It is important to understand these storage options in order to make an informed decision about managing your data and online privacy.

Availability and forms

Buscopan is a medicine used to treat cramp-like pain associated with the gastrointestinal tract. It is available in different dosage forms to meet different needs. The Buscopan 10 mg coated tablets are available in pharmacies without a prescription and offer a practical option for minor cases and for self-medication. In one pack Buscopan coated tablets contains 20 coated tablets that have an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscles.

For patients who prefer an alternative format or for whom the coated tablets are not appropriate, the range also offers Buscopan suppositories are also available. This form can be particularly beneficial in cases of nausea and vomiting or for young children.

In contrast to the coated tablets and suppositories, the solution for injection of Buscopan requires a prescription. It is used in medical facilities and is primarily intended for the treatment of severe cramp-like pain under medical supervision.

Over-the-counter vs. prescription only

The dosage forms of Buscopan differ in terms of their availability. While Buscopan coated tablets and suppositories can be purchased without a prescription, the injection solution can only be obtained with a doctor's prescription. This helps to ensure that the more potent and potentially riskier injection form is only used under medical supervision. Over-the-counter coated tablets and suppositories are therefore suitable for self-medication, although the package leaflet must always be observed and a doctor or pharmacist should be consulted in case of doubt.

Packaging options

Buscopan 10 mg coated tablets is offered in packs of 20 and is available at a price of € 12.00 including VAT. The smaller form of the lozenges makes them easy to swallow and therefore particularly practical for those who need a medicine on the go. Furthermore Buscopan PLUS with the active ingredients of Buscopan coated tablets plus an analgesic active ingredient, available in packs of 10 and 20 film-coated tablets.

Another advantage of this product line is that the coated tablets are both gluten and lactose free, making them well tolerated by adults and children from the age of 6. The products contain the active ingredient hyoscine-N-butylbromide, which has its origin in the herbal component of the Duboisia plant, which may be of interest to users with a preference for medicinal herbal substances.

Over-the-counter vs. prescription

Medicines can basically be divided into two categories: over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription.

OTC medicines:

• Are available in pharmacies without a prescription.
• Intended for mild to moderate complaints.
• Users should still follow the package leaflet and ask their pharmacist for advice if they are unsure.
• Examples: Painkillers such as ibuprofen, cough and cold remedies.

Prescription medicines:

• Obtain only with a prescription after consulting a doctor.
• For more serious illnesses or if a more precise diagnosis is required.
• Use and dosage is determined by the doctor.
• Examples: Antibiotics, strong painkillers.

Both types require responsible use and adherence to the recommended dose. With OTC medicines, users must act on their own responsibility, while prescription medicines are taken under medical advice.

It is important to be aware of possible adverse effects and to seek medical help in the event of severe symptoms or reactions.

Information for healthcare providers

Buscopan® is a medicinal product containing the active substance butylscopolamine. It is used to treat gastrointestinal complaints due to its antispasmodic effect. When prescribing Buscopan® the following points in particular should be taken into account:

1. Observe the patient profileBefore prescribing Buscopan® the possibility of paracetamol intoxication should be considered, especially in the elderly, patients with liver dysfunction or a history of alcohol abuse.
2. Duration of useTreatment with Buscopan® should not be taken for longer than 3 to 5 days without medical advice in order to minimize the risk of side effects.
3. Recognize alarm signsSevere abdominal pain - accompanied by symptoms such as fever, vomiting or blood in the stool - requires immediate medical consultation.
4. Treat patient groups with cautionSpecial care should be taken in patients with impaired liver or kidney function, Gilbert's syndrome or malnutrition. Medical supervision is necessary here.

It is important that you, as a healthcare professional, take all these factors into account to ensure the safety of your patients and the effectiveness of Buscopan® to optimize its effectiveness.

Source: istockphoto Svitlana Hulko