Dicyclomine, also known by its trade name, Bentyl, treats painful bowel spasms caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Dicyclomine belongs to a class of medications called anticholinergics. Dicyclomine is considered a generally safe drug, and the moderate side effects of anticholinergics generally make these drugs safe for healthy patients. However, for some populations, especially the elderly, certain effects may be dangerous.
Heat Stroke
Dicyclomine may cause patients to stop sweating. Because perspiration plays an important role in cooling the body in hot environments, the inability to sweat can be dangerous. Elderly people are especially at risk for heat stroke in hot weather. Dicyclomine combined with environmental factors may cause the patient to develop a heat stroke, which can be fatal unless treated early.
Psychosis
Taking more than the prescribed amount of dicyclomine can cause an overdose-related psychosis. Patients overdosing on dicyclomine, as well as some individuals with a high sensitivity to anticholinergics, may experience confusion, disorientation, hallucinations, lack of balance, euphoria, agitation, or emotions not appropriate to the situation. These symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours of stopping the medication, but during the psychotic episode, patients may lack safety judgment and engage in risky or harmful behaviors.
Choking Risk
Dicyclomine slows secretions and causes dry mouth. By itself, a dry mouth isn't dangerous, but it can make swallowing difficult. For people who already have difficulty swallowing, dicyclomine will make this impairment worse. Because so many elderly people have difficulty swallowing their medications, in this population, dicyclomine may set the stage for a choking incident.
Visual Impairment
Dicyclomine causes the eyes to focus on the distance, making nearby objects appear blurred. It also causes sensitivity to bright light. These adverse effects will make any activity requiring sharp vision difficult, and hazardous activities will be even more dangerous. Anyone taking dicyclomine should avoid situations requiring visual judgments, for safety.
References
- MedlinePlus: Dicyclomine
- Drugs.com: Dicyclomine
- Medicine.Net: Dicyclomine
- Pharmacology for Nursing Care, Richard D. Lehne, Ph.D., 2006.
