GENERIC NAME: PYRIDOSTIGMINE - ORAL (pir-id-oh-STIG-meen)
BRAND NAME(S): Mestinon
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Pyridostigmine is used to treat a muscle disease (myasthenia gravis) or to counteract the effects of certain muscle relaxant medication.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than directed. May take with food to lessen side effects. The sustained release tablets (180 mg) must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew them.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause blurred vision, stomach upset, gas, headache, sweating, flushing, muscle twitching or increased tears and saliva. These effects should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: abnormal heart rate, fainting, skin rash, hair loss, diarrhea, extreme muscle weakness, trouble breathing or swallowing, difficulty urinating, trouble speaking. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have any of the following: stomach disorders, kidney or urinary problems, ulcers, asthma, epilepsy, heart diseases, thyroid disorders, allergies (especially to bromides or anticholinesterases). Notify your doctor if this medication appears to be losing its effect. In some cases, people become insensitive to the medication and it must be stopped for a brief period. Talk to your doctor about this. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Because this medication appears in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Myasthenia Gravis - Learn about myasthenia gravis, a neuromuscular disease which symptoms include eye weakness, facial expression weakness, and difficulty swallowing. Diagnosis and treatment options are included in the information.
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