Dicyclomine is a drug used to treat the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It works by relieving spasms in the gastrointestinal tract that interfere with normal bowel and digestive functioning. It is available in capsule, tablet, syrup and intramuscular injection form. Dicyclomine can cause a number of side effects that have the potential to become serious.
General Side Effects
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), dicyclomine may cause a number of general side effects. For some people, these symptoms may persist or become more serious. These side effects include headache, loss of appetite, upset stomach, vomiting, gas or bloating, stomach pain, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, weakness and drowsiness. Other symptoms that may develop include blurred or double vision, problems urinating or tingling in the hands, feet or other parts of the body.
Serious Side Effects
Dicyclomine can cause some serious side effects, according to the NIH. Severe symptoms may include hallucinations, confusion, forgetfulness, anxiety, unsteadiness or loss of balance, extreme fatigue or drowsiness, extreme excitement, unusual or inappropriate mood changes, muscle weakness, rapid heart rate and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Skin rashes, hives and itching may also occur. Some may develop hot, flushed, dry skin, become lightheaded, experience fainting or fall into a coma. If any of these symptoms occur, you should seek emergency medical assistance right away.
Other Possible Side Effects
Other side effects have been reported among those taking dicyclomine or drugs that work in the same way as dicyclomine (called anticholinergic or antispasmodic medications). According to RX List, some of these symptoms include nasal or throat congestion, sneezing, shortness of breath, apnea, asphyxia, urinary retention, loss of taste, insomnia, impotence and suppression of lactation.
Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have occurred. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening, whole-body allergic response that can develop within minutes after taking the medication. Symptoms include a sudden drop in blood pressure, faintness, heart palpitations, anxiety, confusion, difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives, skin redness and itchiness, swelling of the eyes or face, diarrhea and slurred speech, according to the NIH. In some cases, the skin may start to turn blue from lack of oxygen, and swelling of the throat can block your airway, leading to anaphylactic shock.
Dicyclomine can also interact with other medications to cause serious side effects. Individuals with high intraocular pressure (such as those with glaucoma) who are taking corticosteroids should not take dicyclomine or other anticholinergic drugs as they interfere with the effect of antiglaucoma medications.
Other drugs such as antihistamines, antipsychotic drugs, benzodiazepines, monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, narcotics and tricyclic antidepressants may increase the side effects of dicyclomine, according to RX List. These drugs should not be combined unless you are directed to do so by a physician.
Member Comments