Abdominal pain can affect anyone at any time and significantly impair quality of life. At such times, many people look for a quick and effective solution. Here comes Buscopan comes into play, a proven remedy for relieving abdominal cramps and pain.
Buscopan is an over-the-counter medication that is often used to treat gastrointestinal complaints. In particular, it helps to relieve menstrual cramps and other abdominal complaints thanks to its special combination of active ingredients. But how does Buscopan exactly, and what guidelines should be followed when taking it?
In this article, we will discuss the effectiveness and use of Buscopan in detail. In addition, we'll highlight important dosing guidelines and warnings to ensure you're well informed before taking Buscopan online.
Buscopan is a medicine used to relieve cramp-like pain in the digestive and abdominal area. The active ingredient butylscopolamine bromide acts by binding to acetylcholine receptors, which influence the smooth muscles in organs such as the intestines, bile ducts or female genital organs, and thus leads to muscle relaxation.
Areas of application of Buscopan are diverse and include symptoms such as mild to moderate cramps in the digestive tract, irritable stomach, ulcerative colitis and gastrointestinal infections, as well as painful menstrual bleeding and dysfunctions in the biliary tract. It also offers Buscopan Plusa combination preparation with paracetamol, offers even faster and more intensive relief.
Buscopan is available in several formulations, including coated tablets, suppositories and other common dosage forms that allow flexibility of use. It is important to adhere to the recommended dose and to seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist if any adverse effects occur. Buscopan is manufactured and distributed by A. Nattermann & Cie. GmbH, based in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
Buscopan Plus is characterized by the combination of two active substances: Butylscopolamine and paracetamol. This combination enables targeted treatment of pain and cramps in the abdominal area. Butylscopolamine acts directly on the muscarinic receptors that control the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and thus leads to noticeable cramp relief. Paracetamol, on the other hand, shows its strengths in pain relief and thus ideally complements the effect of butylscopolamine, which Buscopan Plus is particularly effective in the treatment of pain due to gastrointestinal disorders, which are often caused by an unhealthy diet.
The aforementioned synergistic effect of both ingredients makes Buscopan Plus is also effective against various types of pain, including pain during menstruation. Because it is well tolerated by the stomach and intestines Buscopan Plus can also be taken without hesitation during menstruation. The combination of its antispasmodic and pain-relieving properties helps to quickly relieve acute symptoms and offers rapid relief, especially for menstrual pain.
Relief from abdominal pain
Buscopan® is a proven medicine for the relief of cramp-like abdominal pain. The coated tablets contain the active ingredient butylscopolaminium bromide, which acts as a muscarinic receptor antagonist and thus relaxes the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, helping to reduce pain.
For those who suffer from painful periods as well as cramps Buscopan® PLUS a combination of butylscopolamine and paracetamol, which both relieves muscle cramps and effectively combats pain.
It is important, Buscopan according to the instructions and recommendations on the package leaflet. It should not be used for longer than the specified duration without consulting a doctor. Thanks to its availability in pharmacies, patients have quick access to the medication and can respond promptly to acute abdominal pain.
Patients should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist if adverse effects occur or if symptoms persist.
Dosage and use of Buscopan®:
- Use in adults: According to the package leaflet
- Duration of use: Only after medical advice beyond the specified duration
- Pharmacy availability: Non-prescription
The advice of a doctor or pharmacist should always be sought if you have any questions about your individual situation.
Coping with menstrual cramps
Buscopan is often used to treat cramp-like pain associated with menstruation. These menstrual cramps, known as dysmenorrhea, usually manifest as intense, cramp-like pain in the lower abdominal area. During menstruation, prostaglandins, which act as pain messengers, can be increasingly produced and thus contribute to abdominal pain.
Rapidly effective relief of acute menstrual pain is crucial to maintaining well-being and quality of life. Buscopan® PLUS combines butylscopolamine bromide, which acts on overstimulated smooth muscle, with paracetamol to both relax muscle spasms and reduce the sensation of pain.
With the use of Buscopan it is important to observe the following points:
- Take Buscopan according to the instructions and do not exceed the recommended dose.
- If you notice any side effects or are unsure about the application, it is advisable to ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.
It is always advisable to use medicines according to the instructions and to resort to quick, effective help for acute pain conditions.
Active ingredients in Buscopan
Buscopan is a well-known medicine that is used to relieve cramp-like pain associated with smooth muscle disorders, such as those that occur in the gastrointestinal tract. The main active ingredient in Buscopan is butylscopolaminium bromide, a parasympatholytic known specifically for its antispasmodic effect. Each coated tablet Buscopan contains 10 mg of this active ingredient.
For an extended effect there are Buscopan PLUSwhich also contains paracetamol - a pain-relieving and antipyretic agent. In each tablet Buscopan PLUS contains 500 mg paracetamol. This combination serves both to relieve muscle cramps and to reduce the sensation of pain.
The active ingredients of Buscopan can be listed as follows:
Buscopan
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Buscopan PLUS
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10 mg butylscopolaminium bromide
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10 mg butylscopolaminium bromide
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-
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500 mg paracetamol
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Buscopan is available in pharmacies and can also be administered as a suppository to achieve a direct effect on the smooth muscles. It is important not to exceed the recommended dose and to consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as glaucoma, to avoid possible adverse effects.
Buscopan is an effective medication for the treatment of cramp-like pain, especially in the gastrointestinal area. The active ingredient butylscopolamine bromide relaxes the smooth muscles and provides rapid relief from various types of abdominal pain. Especially for complaints caused by irritable bowel syndrome Buscopan is highly effective.
In addition to its use in adults Buscopan can also help with menstrual cramps, because the combination with paracetamol in Buscopan PLUS enhances the pain-relieving component. This is why it is often used for painful periods.
It is also Buscopan is also recommended for relieving the symptoms of cystitis, as it reduces the unpleasant burning sensation when urinating.
As a medicine that has been on the list of essential medicines since 2013, Buscopan is Buscopan is available over the counter in pharmacies, making it easier for patients to access.
In summary Buscopan is used for the following indications:
- Cramps of the gastrointestinal tract
- Abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome
- Pain relief for menstrual cramps (in particular Buscopan PLUS)
- Pain relief for bladder infections
However, patients should consult a doctor or pharmacist for advice on individual dosage and possible adverse effects before taking Buscopan PLUS.
Dosage guidelines
Buscopan Plus is a proven remedy for relieving cramp-like pain, especially in the gastrointestinal area and for painful periods. The correct dosage of Buscopan Plus is crucial for the safe and effective use of the medication.
In adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over, a single dose of 1 to 2 film-coated tablets Buscopan Plus should be taken. It is important not to exceed the maximum dose of 6 tablets per day. There must be a minimum interval of 8 hours between doses to avoid side effects. The tablets should be swallowed whole with sufficient liquid to optimize the absorption of the active ingredient.
Please note that without medical advice Buscopan Plus should not be taken for longer than 3 to 4 days without medical advice. If there are signs of an overdose, immediate medical attention is required. It is recommended that before starting to take Buscopan Plus it is advisable to consult your doctor or pharmacist to take individual circumstances into account.
Recommended dose for adults
Adults and adolescents over 12 years of age who Buscopan Plus should take 1 to 2 film-coated tablets per single dose, depending on the intensity of the pain. It is important not to exceed the maximum daily dose of 6 tablets. For an effective effect and to prevent possible side effects, the film-coated tablets must be taken at least 8 hours apart. The duration of treatment should not exceed 3 to 4 days, taking the doctor's advice into account, to avoid side effects and habituation effects.
Dosage instructions for children
The use of Buscopan in children requires particular caution and should always be used under medical supervision. For children over 6 years of age Buscopan 10 mg suppositories are intended for children over 6 years of age. They should not be used for longer than 3 days without medical advice. Children between 6 and 12 years of age may Buscopan 10 mg suppositories only after consulting a doctor. The usual dose for children aged 6 years and over is coated tablets 3 times daily 1 to 2 coated tabletsbut the maximum daily dose of 60 mg butylscopolamine bromide must not be exceeded. Buscopan PLUS is not recommended for children under 12 years of age, as there is insufficient experience for this age group. Children under 6 years of age should not take suppositories of Buscopan 10 mg suppositories.
Warnings for patients
When using Buscopan® Dragées it is essential not to use them beyond the period recommended in the package leaflet without medical advice. This is to reduce the risk of adverse effects. If symptoms such as severe, persistent or worsening abdominal pain worsen or additional symptoms such as fever, nausea or blood in the stool occur, it is urgent to consult a doctor.
When using Buscopan special caution is also required, as it is not recommended for children under 6 years of age due to insufficient experience. Patients with liver dysfunction or other particular health problems should Buscopan should only be taken under medical supervision in order to avoid potential complications.
If side effects such as accelerated heartbeat, skin reactions or, in the worst case, shortness of breath occur, it is essential that the intake of Buscopan should be stopped immediately and a doctor contacted.
Chronic conditions
Regular or high intake of painkillers can lead to chronic headaches, possibly caused by the medication itself. There is also a risk of permanent kidney damage if the use of painkillers becomes habitual, especially if different painkillers are combined. There is also the possibility of intolerance to painkillers, which can lead to severe allergic reactions.
With long-term use of Buscopan patients should not use the medication for more than 3-4 days without medical advice in order to reduce the occurrence of side effects. An overdose of Buscopan can lead to progressive health complications such as hepatic coma within three days, even if the symptoms of an overdose initially subside.
Allergic reactions
Patients may Buscopan PLUS if there is a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to the active substance butylscopolaminium bromide, paracetamol or any of the other ingredients of the medicine. Occasionally, skin reactions such as hives (urticaria) and itching may occur. Rarer but more severe allergic reactions include shortness of breath (dyspnoea) and serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylactic shock, characterized by a drop in blood pressure and a sudden flush.
If an allergic reaction is suspected, the use of Buscopan immediately and a doctor or pharmacist should be contacted immediately.
Chronic diseases and the role of painkillers
The continuous use of painkillers can have undesirable consequences. For example, regular use of such medication can cause chronic headaches, which are paradoxically caused by the painkillers themselves. In addition, there is a risk of permanent kidney damage if painkillers are taken habitually, especially when different active ingredients are combined.
Allergic reactions should also be taken seriously. Intolerance can trigger serious allergic reactions, so you need to be careful about your own tolerance.
Especially when using Buscopan for the treatment of cramp-like pain should not be used for more than three to four days without consulting a doctor in order to reduce the risk of side effects.
In the event of an overdose of Buscopan progressive health complications such as hepatic coma may occur within a period of three days, even though initial symptoms of overdose may subside. Patients are advised to be aware of possible symptoms and adverse effects and to seek advice from their doctor or pharmacist if in doubt.
Caution: Always use medicines as directed and do not deviate from the recommended dose without medical advice.
Allergic reactions
Buscopan is a medication used to relieve cramping pain in areas such as the female reproductive organs and the digestive tract. It is important to note that Buscopan Plus must not be taken if you are hypersensitive to butylscopolaminium bromide, paracetamol or any of the other ingredients.
Allergic reactions to Buscopan can vary in intensity. Occasionally, harmless side effects such as skin reactions can occur, including urticaria and itching. More severe reactions such as shortness of breath and anaphylactic shock with symptoms such as a drop in blood pressure and a feeling of heat may occur less frequently.
Important information on allergic reactions:
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Allergic symptomsSkin reactions, shortness of breath, drop in blood pressure, flushing
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Measures: Immediate discontinuation of Buscopan in case of allergy to ingredients
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CounselingImmediate consultation of a doctor or pharmacist in case of adverse effects
If an allergy to one of the ingredients is detected or suspected, it is crucial to stop taking the product immediately and seek professional advice. For the sake of your health, inform yourself in detail about possible allergic reactions and act quickly and responsibly in the event of an allergic reaction.
Contraindications
When using medicines such as Buscopan certain contraindications must be observed so as not to endanger the patient's health. The most important contraindications that apply to Buscopan to be considered include
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Glaucoma: Buscopan can increase intraocular pressure and is therefore not suitable for patients with this eye disease.
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Cardiac arrhythmiasDue to the risk of tachycardia, i.e. an accelerated heartbeat, the following should be avoided Buscopan should not be used in people with these disorders.
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Pregnancy and breastfeedingThe use of Buscopan is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as potential risks to the unborn child or infant cannot be ruled out.
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Prostatic hyperplasiaPatients with this condition should Buscopan as it can lead to increased urinary retention.
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Thyrotoxicosis: As the active substance of Buscopan can affect the metabolism, its use is not recommended for this metabolic disorder.
Patients with special medical problems
When using Buscopana medicine used to treat cramp-like pain in the abdominal area, there are specific medical conditions for which particular caution is required or which constitute a contraindication.
Contraindications to the use of Buscopan:
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Allergies: Do not use if you are allergic to the active substance hyoscine-N-butylbromide, bromides or any of the other ingredients of the medicinal product.
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Myasthenia gravis: In this form of pathological muscle weakness Buscopan is contraindicated.
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Gastrointestinal constriction: Do not use in the case of organically caused constrictions of the gastrointestinal tract.
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Ileus: Patients with paralytic or mechanical intestinal obstruction must Buscopan should not take Buscopan.
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Colon dilatation: In the case of a pathological dilation of the colon, the intake of Buscopan is prohibited in order to avoid serious complications.
It is always advisable to read the package leaflet carefully and ask the pharmacist for advice if you are unsure. This is the only way to ensure that the medicine is used safely, taking into account the individual health situation.
Interactions with other medicines
Buscopan is a drug that is often used to treat cramp-like pain associated with gastrointestinal disorders or the female reproductive organs. It is important when taking Buscopan possible interactions with other medicines.
Be sure to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are also taking other medicines. Interactions can occur with Buscopan due to its anticholinergic effects if it is taken together with other anticholinergics or certain antidepressants.
The concomitant use of Buscopan and dopamine antagonists such as metoclopramide can weaken the effect on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, paracetamol, which is used in certain Buscopan-products may increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking anticoagulants such as warfarin.
To prevent overdoses, check whether other medicines used at the same time contain paracetamol. The recommended dose of Buscopan should not be exceeded and if you have any questions, it is advisable to consult your pharmacist for advice. Observe the information on the other ingredients and on possible adverse effects and seek medical help immediately in the event of an irregular heartbeat or accelerated heartbeat.
Possible side effects
When using Buscopan various side effects may occur. Occasionally there is an accelerated heartbeat, skin reactions such as hives and itching, as well as dry mouth. These symptoms are often a direct result of the anticholinergic effects of the drug. In addition, a drop in blood pressure, dizziness, nausea and general stomach complaints may also occur.
Other potential side effects include hypersensitivity reactions, which may manifest as shortness of breath or severe anaphylactic reactions, although these reactions are rare and their exact incidence is undetermined. People with glaucoma may very rarely experience disturbances in near vision, which may be accompanied by severe eye pain. Patients may also be affected by an inhibition of sweat and saliva secretion, which can lead to dry skin and dry mouth.
Common side effects
Buscopana medication used to relieve cramp-like pain, can have occasional side effects. Observed side effects include an accelerated heartbeat and skin reactions such as hives and itching. These effects are due to the peripheral anticholinergic properties of the active ingredient. Dry mouth may also occur.
In rarer cases, urinary retention and disturbances of sweat gland activity may occur. Less common side effects include digestive problems such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Hypersensitivity reactions, which can lead to severe reactions such as respiratory distress or anaphylactic shock, have not been extensively documented as they have not occurred in clinical trials. Interestingly, the combination of Buscopan with paracetamol may enhance the effect of the drug, which may also influence the frequency and severity of side effects.
In the event of adverse effects or questions about the tolerability of Buscopan a doctor or pharmacist should always be consulted for advice. It is important not to exceed the recommended dose and to follow the instructions for the next application exactly.
Buscopan is a medication used to relieve cramp-like pain in areas such as the female reproductive organs or the gastrointestinal tract. Although it helps many people, there are also occasional adverse effects.
A rare but possible side effect of Buscopan is urinary retention. This occurs in up to 1 in 1,000 people treated. Hypersensitivity reactions may also occur, although they are not well documented. These reactions can have serious consequences for the cardiovascular system and may include respiratory distress or anaphylactic reactions.
Other side effects include skin rashes and redness, although the frequency of these cannot be estimated based on the available data. Unfortunately, it is not possible to accurately estimate the frequency of certain side effects such as shortness of breath in clinical studies.
It is important to emphasize that the side effects mentioned are not to be expected in every user, but deserve attention if they occur.
If you Buscopan and notice any adverse effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. Rapid action is essential, especially if there are signs of a hypersensitivity reaction.
Pregnant women often have questions about the safety and tolerability of medication. With Buscopana medicine used to relieve cramp-like pain, is no different. Buscopan 10 mg suppositories contain the active substance butylscopolamine and special care should be taken when using them during pregnancy. There is insufficient data on the effects of Buscopan in pregnant women, which makes it essential to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use. Due to the existing uncertainties, the use of Buscopan should be avoided during pregnancy until further safety information is available.
Safety considerations during pregnancy regarding Buscopan
When using Buscopanespecially the 10 mg suppositories, special care must be taken during pregnancy. The reason for this is that there is as yet no conclusive data on safety in pregnant women. Women who are expecting a child or breastfeeding should therefore always ask their doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking Buscopan. Buscopanwhose active ingredient is butylscopolaminium bromide, can potentially affect the liver and kidneys with prolonged use or excessive dosing. Caution and regular medical monitoring are therefore recommended.
Particular caution is also required in young children, as they are sensitive to anticholinergic substances such as those in Buscopan contained in Buscopan. Mothers who Buscopan and breastfeeding should be aware of possible anticholinergic symptoms in their child, even if no adverse effects have been reported in breastfed infants to date.
Summary of precautions to be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding:
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Use during pregnancy: Discuss with doctor/pharmacist.
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Lactation: Observe symptoms in the child.
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Continuous/prolonged use: Medical monitoring for liver and kidney damage.
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For infants: Caution when taken by the mother.
Adherence to the recommended dose and expert advice are essential to minimize risks.
Use during breastfeeding
The use of Buscopan during breastfeeding should be used with caution, as there is a lack of sufficient data on safety in breastfeeding mothers. Buscopan contains the active ingredient butylscopolamine, which has the potential to pass into breast milk. It is therefore advisable to ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking it.
In view of the lack of systematic data on the safety of use in breastfeeding mothers Buscopan should only be taken during breastfeeding after careful medical consideration. In general, the use of Buscopan during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally avoided for precautionary reasons until further information on safety and efficacy is available.
If you are a breastfeeding mother and the need for a Buscopan-treatment, the decision to use it should be based on an individual risk-benefit assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.
Recommendation for use
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Measure
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Lactation period
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Use only after medical advice
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Pregnancy
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Avoid until further safety data are available
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The safety of the use of butylscopolamine in nursing mothers requires additional caution. It remains essential to consult with a medical specialist before use.
Buscopan Dragées are a proven medication for the treatment of mild to moderate abdominal discomfort. These coated tablets should be taken whole with sufficient liquid, ideally with a glass of water, to achieve the best effect. The active ingredient butylscopolamine, extracted from the Duboisia plant, helps to relax the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract and thus relieves discomfort.
The good tolerability of butylscopolamine makes Buscopan a suitable option for adults and children from the age of six. Particularly noteworthy is the rapid relief of symptoms such as flatulence or feelings of tension, which can be caused by stress. As a non-prescription medicine Buscopan offers uncomplicated relief and has been on the World Health Organization's list of essential medicines since 2013.
In the course of taking Buscopan it is important to observe the recommended dose. A pharmacist or doctor should always be consulted for more detailed information, particularly on adverse effects or when taking other medicines at the same time. This will ensure that the intake of Buscopan Dragées remains safe and effective.
Table: Buscopan Dragées
Property
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Property information
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Active ingredient
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Butylscopolamine
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Field of application
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Mild to moderate abdominal discomfort
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Dosage form
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Coated tablets
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Dosage
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Chewed whole with liquid
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Age group
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Adults and children from 6 years
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Prescription only
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Not subject to prescription
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List of essential medicines
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Listed since 2013
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Wider use for abdominal complaints
Buscopan® is a well-known medication for the treatment of cramp-like abdominal pain, which is based on the active ingredient butylscopolaminium bromide. This acts as a muscarinic receptor antagonist and parasympatholytic by relaxing the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.
Not only for gastrointestinal cramps and irritable bowel syndrome is Buscopan® is also effective for complaints of other smooth muscles in the body. These include functional disorders in the bile ducts and the urinary tract.
For precise diagnostic procedures such as endoscopic examinations Buscopan® provides relief by relaxing the muscles to allow a clearer image. It is often used in the form of injections before such procedures.
The following table shows the range of applications of Buscopan is listed:
Area of application
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Description
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Gastrointestinal tract
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Relief of cramp-like pain, e.g. in irritable bowel syndrome.
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Biliary and urinary tract
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Treatment of functional disorders and cramps.
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Endoscopic examination
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Muscle relaxation to facilitate diagnostic procedures.
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A doctor or pharmacist should always be consulted if there are any further questions or uncertainties regarding use or adverse effects. It is important not to exceed the recommended dose and to follow the instructions for use.
Storage instructions
Buscopan is a medicine used to relieve spasmodic pain associated with smooth muscle disorders, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract and female reproductive tract. It is crucial to store and dispose of this medicine correctly to ensure both safety and efficacy.
Storage instructions for Buscopan:
- Buscopan should always be kept out of the reach of children to minimize the risk of inappropriate ingestion.
- The coated tablets of Buscopan must not be used after the expiry date, which is clearly indicated on the outer carton and the blister.
- Please note that the expiry date always refers to the last day of the month stated on the pack.
Disposal of Buscopan:
- Medicines should not simply be disposed of in waste water.
- To protect the environment and ensure that no adverse effects are caused by improper disposal, you should ask your pharmacist for advice on how to Buscopan if you no longer need it.
By following these instructions, you contribute to the safety of use and the protection of the environment.
Source: istockphoto LordHenriVoton
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