What is Dicyclomine? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to take Dicyclomine

• Take your medicine as directed. The dose may need to be changed several times at the beginning of therapy.

• Doses can be taken with or without food.

• Swallow tablets or capsules whole. Do not break, crush, or chew.

• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a calibrated oral syringe or medicine measuring cup provided. Do not use tableware or kitchen measuring devices.

• Take other medications at least one hour before taking a dose of dicyclomine.

  • Do not take antacids at the same time as dicyclomine.

• Store dicyclomine at room temperature protected from heat.

What to do if you miss a dose of Dicyclomine

• Take a dose as soon as you remember. 

• If it is almost time for the next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. 

• Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Dicyclomine contraindications - Who shouldn't take Dicyclomine?

• This medicine is not right for everyone.

• Dicyclomine is contraindicated in:

  • Anyone who is actively bleeding and may be unstable

  • Women who are breastfeeding

  • Children younger than 6 months old

• Do not use dicyclomine if you have had an allergic reaction to dicyclomine, are breastfeeding, or if you have:

  • Glaucoma

  • Myasthenia gravis

  • Urinary blockage

  • Gastrointestinal blockage

  • Severe ulcerative colitis

  • Reflux esophagitis

Dicyclomine warnings

• Make sure healthcare professionals treating you are aware that you are taking dicyclomine.

• Because of possible side effects, make sure to keep all appointments with the prescriber.

• Before taking dicyclomine, tell the prescriber if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have:

  • Heart or blood vessel problems

  • High blood pressure

  • Liver problems

  • Kidney problems

  • Digestive system problems, especially ulcerative colitis, blockage, hiatal hernia, or diarrhea

  • Overactive thyroid

  • Enlarged prostate

  • Autonomic neuropathy

  • Fever

• The prescriber also needs to know if you’ve had certain intestinal surgeries, particularly:

  • An ileostomy

  • A colostomy

• This medicine may make you sweat less, making you vulnerable to overheating.

  • Avoid hot places.

  • Stay indoors when it is hot outside.

  • Be cautious when exercising. 

• This medicine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing any other risky activity until you know how dicyclomine affects you.

• Your eyes may be more sensitive to bright light while you are using this medicine. You may want to wear sunglasses in bright sunlight.

Dicyclomine interactions & what to avoid when taking Dicyclomine

• To avoid possible drug interactions, tell the prescribing healthcare provider about all the prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements regularly taken before starting dicyclomine, particularly:

  • Other anticholinergic drugs, including certain types of asthma medications

  • Drugs that treat glaucoma

  • Drugs that treat diarrhea

  • Drugs that treat constipation

  • Drugs that speed up stomach emptying

  • Antipsychotics

  • Drugs that cause constipation, such as opioids

  • Drugs that make you urinate called thiazide diuretics

  • Antihistamines

  • Potassium supplements or potassium-containing drugs

  • Digoxin

• Antacids should be taken at least two hours before a dicyclomine dose.

Find more detailed information about dicyclomine interactions to avoid here.