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ALIMENTARY TRACT AND METABOLISM › DRUGS FOR FUNCTIONAL GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS › DRUGS FOR FUNCTIONAL GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS › Synthetic antispasmodics, amides with tertiary amines
nicofetamide
A03AC04
Forms & Strengths
- Oral tablets: strength varies by regional manufacturer
- Combination preparations available in select international markets
Adult Dosing
- Standard adult dose: 100 mg to 200 mg orally 3 times daily
- Taken typically before meals for gastrointestinal motility disorders
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients not established
- Use in children is generally not recommended or requires specialized pediatric specialist supervision
Indications
- Symptomatic relief of gastrointestinal spasms
- Adjunctive treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and painful functional bowel disorders
Mechanism of Action
- Acts as an antispasmodic agent on gastrointestinal smooth muscle
- Exerts a direct papaverine-like relaxant effect on visceral smooth muscle to relieve cramping
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to nicofetamide or related nicotinic acid derivatives
- Paralytic ileus, gastrointestinal obstruction, or toxic megacolon
- Severe hepatic impairment
Adverse Reactions
- Mild gastrointestinal distress, nausea, or dry mouth
- Transient flushing or warmth due to nicotinic acid moiety
- Dizziness or mild headache
Drug Interactions
- Additive anticholinergic effects when co-administered with other antimuscarinic drugs
- Potential potentiation of vasodilators and antihypertensives leading to hypotension
- Altered gastrointestinal absorption of concurrently administered oral medications due to motility changes
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use