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ALIMENTARY TRACT AND METABOLISM › DRUGS FOR FUNCTIONAL GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS › DRUGS FOR FUNCTIONAL GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS › Synthetic anticholinergics, esters with tertiary amino group
dihexyverine
A03AA08
Forms & Strengths
- Oral capsules: 10 mg
- Oral elixir: 10 mg/5 mL
Adult Dosing
- 20 mg orally 3 to 4 times daily
- Adjust dose based on clinical response and tolerability
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients not established
- Use generally avoided or limited due to anticholinergic risk
Indications
- Symptomatic relief of hyperactive conditions of the gastrointestinal tract
- Adjunctive therapy in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastrointestinal spasm
Mechanism of Action
- Anticholinergic/antispasmodic agent
- Exerts a direct papaverine-like relaxant effect on gastrointestinal smooth muscle
- Blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors to inhibit smooth muscle spasms
Contraindications
- Glaucoma (particularly angle-closure)
- Obstructive uropathy (e.g., prostatic hypertrophy)
- Obstructive disease of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., achalasia, paralytic ileus, pyloroduodenal stenosis)
- Severe ulcerative colitis or toxic megacolon
- Myasthenia gravis
- Known hypersensitivity to dihexyverine or other anticholinergics
Adverse Reactions
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Urinary retention
- Dizziness or drowsiness
- Tachycardia
- Confusion or cognitive impairment (especially in elderly patients)
Drug Interactions
- Amantadine, antiarrhythmics (e.g., disopyramide), and other drugs with anticholinergic properties may potentiate adverse effects
- Phenothiazines and tricyclic antidepressants may increase anticholinergic side effects
- May alter gastrointestinal absorption of other concurrently administered oral medications due to decreased motility
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use