Dicyclomine (Bentyl): Uses, MOA, Warnings

What is dicyclomine?

Dicyclomine (also written as dicicloverina in some sources) is a medicine whose active ingredient is dicyclomine hydrochloride. It is used for gastrointestinal conditions where smooth muscle spasm is part of the problem.

In the United States, brand names mentioned in the source content include Bentyl, Dibent, Dicyclocot, and Bentyl Syrup.

How dicyclomine works

Dicyclomine helps relieve smooth muscle spasm in the gastrointestinal tract. The source content describes two mechanisms: a specific anticholinergic effect and a direct effect on smooth muscle.

What dicyclomine is used for

The source content lists dicyclomine for functional gastrointestinal disorders involving spasm, including:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Irritable colon
• Mucosal colitis
• Spastic colon
• Spastic constipation

It is also described as a complementary treatment in some organic gastrointestinal disorders where smooth muscle spasm may be present, such as colitis, diverticulitis, regional enteritis, gastritis, and peptic ulcer.

Dosage information in the source

The original content states that oral dosage should be adjusted to the individual needs of each patient. For adults, it lists 10 to 40 mg taken 3 to 4 times daily, with a maximum of 160 mg per day.

Because dosing can vary by product and patient factors, always verify the exact instructions on the prescription label and official leaflet.

Contraindications listed in the source

The original content says dicyclomine should not be used in people with:

• Known hypersensitivity to dicyclomine hydrochloride
• Obstructive uropathy
• Gastrointestinal obstruction
• Paralytic ileus
• Intestinal atony
• Severe ulcerative colitis
• Myasthenia gravis
• Children under 12 years of age

Warnings and precautions

The source content highlights several precautions:

• Use with caution in people with glaucoma or prostatic hypertrophy.
• In those situations, the source notes not to exceed 80 mg/day.
• Use caution in patients with hiatal hernia associated with reflux esophagitis, because anticholinergic medicines may worsen this condition.
• Dicyclomine hydrochloride is stated to be contraindicated in children 12 years of age or younger.

Drug interactions mentioned in the source

The original content lists possible interactions with:

• Amantadine
• Class I antiarrhythmic drugs
• Antihistamines
• Antipsychotic drugs
• Benzodiazepines
• MAOIs
• Narcotic analgesics
• Nitrates and nitrites
• Sympathomimetic agents
• Tricyclic antidepressants

It also notes that anticholinergics may antagonize glaucoma medicines, may affect the absorption of some medicines such as digoxin, and that antacids can interfere with absorption. The source also mentions possible antagonism with medicines that alter gastrointestinal motility, such as metoclopramide.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy

The source content says dicyclomine should be used during pregnancy only when clearly indicated by a doctor, since risk cannot be excluded with absolute certainty for any product.

Breastfeeding

The source content states that it is not known whether dicyclomine hydrochloride is excreted in breast milk. It advises taking the usual warnings and cautions into account during breastfeeding.

Possible adverse reactions and side effects

The original content lists the following adverse reactions and side effects:

• Dry mouth
• Thirst
• Fatigue
• Sedation
• Blurred vision
• Rashes
• Constipation
• Anorexia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headaches
• Psychotic episodes
• Dysuria

If any side effect is severe, persistent, or unusual, seek medical advice promptly.

What to verify in the official leaflet

Before using any medicine containing dicyclomine, it is sensible to confirm the following with the official FDA medication guide or a pharmacist:

• The exact indication for your product
• The correct dose and schedule for the specific formulation
• Age restrictions
• Warnings related to glaucoma, urinary problems, or bowel obstruction
• Interaction risks with your current medicines
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding guidance

FAQ

Sources and references

The source content states that the information was prepared using clinical and molecular information from medicines authorized and marketed in the United States under the Unique Ingredient Identifier (UNII) by the FDA Substance Registration System and the United States Pharmacopeia (USP).

For official product-specific details, consult the FDA medication guide and the product label.