pyridostigmine (Mestinon)

  • Pharmacy Author:
    Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

    Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

  • Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD
    Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD

    Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD

    Dr. Charles "Pat" Davis, MD, PhD, is a board certified Emergency Medicine doctor who currently practices as a consultant and staff member for hospitals. He has a PhD in Microbiology (UT at Austin), and the MD (Univ. Texas Medical Branch, Galveston). He is a Clinical Professor (retired) in the Division of Emergency Medicine, UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, and has been the Chief of Emergency Medicine at UT Medical Branch and at UTHSCSA with over 250 publications.

Is pyridostigmine-oral safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

The safety of pyridostigmine during pregnancy has not been evaluated. Therefore, pyridostigmine should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits of treatment outweigh the potential risk to the mother and the unborn baby. Pyridostigmine is classified as FDA pregnancy risk category C.

Pyridostigmine can be excreted into human milk. The American Academy of Pediatrics considers pyridostigmine to be generally compatible with nursing. Pyridostigmine should be used cautiously in nursing mothers.

What else should I know about pyridostigmine-oral?

What preparations of pyridostigmine-oral are available?

Oral: 60 mg tablets, 60 mg/5 ml syrup, 180 mg timespan (slow release) tablets.

How should I keep pyridostigmine-oral stored?

Pyridostigmine tablets and syrup should be stored at room temperature between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C). Pyridostigmine should be protected from light.

REFERENCE: FDA Prescribing Information.

Quick GuidePrescription Drug Abuse: Know The Warning Signs

Prescription Drug Abuse: Know The Warning Signs
FDA Logo

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.

RxList Logo

Need help identifying pills and medications?

Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.

Subscribe to MedicineNet's Newsletters

Get the latest health and medical information delivered direct to your inbox!

By clicking Submit, I agree to the MedicineNet's Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet's subscriptions at any time.

Health Solutions From Our Sponsors