What is Pyridostigmine?
Pyridostigmine influences the chemicals in the body that play a role in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle movements. Pyridostigmine can be used to treat symptoms of myasthenia gravis. It is also prescribed to military personnel exposed to nerve gas. Pyridostigmine can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.
Side effects of Pyridostigmine
See a doctor immediately. If you notice any of the signs that indicate an allergic reaction, symptoms of hives: breathing difficulties or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue. Stop taking pyridostigmine and contact your doctor right away. If you suffer from one of the following serious adverse effects:
- Extreme weakness in muscles;
- Loss from movement on any area of your body.
- Breath that is weak or shallow;
- Slurred speech, vision problems,
- The severity or absence of improvement in myasthenia gravis symptoms.
Common adverse effects of pyridostigmine could include:
- Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea;
- Muscle cramps and twitching
- Sweating, more salivation, sweating;
- Cough with mucus
- Rashes;
- Blurred vision.
This list isn't exhaustive and other side effects may occur. Please consult your physician if any adverse medical reactions appear. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Mestinon, Neostigmine, Ultomiris, Soliris, Vyvgart, Eculizumab, and Bridion
Warnings
It is not recommended to use pyridostigmine in the event of an obstruction in your bladder or obstruction of the bowel.
Before you take this drug
It is not recommended to take pyridostigmine when you're allergic to it or if you suffer from an obstruction in your bowel or bladder. To ensure that you are able to safely take pyridostigmine, tell your doctor that you suffer from any of these health conditions:
- Asthma
- kidney disease.
FDA pregnant category C. It isn't known whether pyridostigmine could cause harm to a baby who is not yet born. Consult your physician if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking pyridostigmine. It is unclear if the pyridostigmine is absorbed into breast milk or if it is harmful to the nursing infant. Notify your doctor immediately if you plan to breastfeed your baby.Pyridostigmine is not a prescription drug for use by anyone less than 18 years old.
How to take Pyridostigmine?
Follow the instructions on the prescription label. Don't take this medication in smaller or larger doses or for longer than the recommended time. Consume this medicine by mouth or with milk if you experience stomach upset. Avoid chewing, crushing or breaking extended-release tablets in any way. Suck it up whole. Measure the amount of liquid medicine using the dosing syringe that comes with it, a specially designed measuring spoon, or a beverage cup. If you don't own a device for measuring doses, you can ask your pharmacist for one.
The quantity and timing of this medication are crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment. Follow your doctor's advice regarding the dosage of medicine you should be taking and when you should take the medication. Your doctor might alter the dosage to ensure you are getting the most effective outcomes. It is possible to keep a record of the time you took every dose and how long it took for the effects to last. This can help your doctor determine if the dosage requires adjustment.
If you require surgery, be sure to inform your surgeon beforehand that you're using pyridostigmine prior to surgery. It is possible that you will need to stop taking the medication for a brief period of time. Keep it at room temperature, far from heat and moisture. Place the tablets back in their original containers, as well as the canister of preservative with moisture absorption that comes with the medicine.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You should take the missed dose as soon as you can remember. Avoid your missed dosage if you are nearing the time for your next dose. Don't take any extra medication to make up for the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222. Overdose symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, blurred vision, sweating, salivating,anda shallow or weak breathing. Instability to move or no change in your myasthenia-gravis symptoms might also be signs of an overdose.
What should be avoided?
The medication can cause blurred vision or affect your ability to think or react. Be cautious when driving or engaging in any activity that requires that you be conscious and capable of seeing clearly. Drinking alcohol can trigger certain adverse effects associated with pyridostigmine.
Interaction with other drug
Other medications can interfere with pyridostigmine. This includes medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your health professionals about any medications you take in the present and about any medication you stop or start using.
