Glycopyrronium
Drug-Induced Abnormalities, Peptic Ulcer ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Anticholinergic and Cholinergic Muscarinic Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Glycopyrronium
Summary
Glycopyrrolate is used to treat peptic ulcers and to reduce chronic severe drooling in children with neurological conditions.
Glycopyrrolate is an anticholinergic agent. It blocks the action of a substance called acetylcholine, which reduces stomach acid and saliva production. This helps manage symptoms associated with peptic ulcers and excessive drooling.
For adults, the recommended dosage of Glycopyrrolate is 1 mg three times daily, with some patients requiring 2 mg at bedtime. For children aged 3 to 16 years, the dosage is based on weight, starting at 0.02 mg/kg three times daily.
Common side effects of Glycopyrrolate include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and drowsiness. Less common but serious side effects include difficulty breathing, rash, and difficulty urinating. If these occur, seek medical attention immediately.
Glycopyrrolate should not be used by patients with glaucoma, urinary or gastrointestinal obstructions, or myasthenia gravis. It can increase eye pressure, worsen obstructions, and lead to heat prostration. Avoid hot environments and consult your doctor if severe side effects occur.
Indications and Purpose
How does Glycopyrronium work?
Glycopyrrolate is an anticholinergic agent that inhibits the action of acetylcholine on parietal cells in the stomach, reducing gastric secretions and saliva production. This helps manage symptoms of ulcers and excessive drooling.
How does one know if Glycopyrronium is working?
The benefit of glycopyrrolate is evaluated by monitoring the reduction in symptoms it is prescribed to treat, such as drooling or ulcer symptoms. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to assess effectiveness and adjust dosage if necessary.
Is Glycopyrronium effective?
Glycopyrrolate is effective in reducing symptoms of peptic ulcers and managing chronic severe drooling in children with neurological conditions. Clinical studies have shown significant improvements in drooling scores, indicating its effectiveness in managing these conditions.
What is Glycopyrronium?
Glycopyrrolate is used to treat peptic ulcers and reduce chronic severe drooling in children with neurological conditions. It works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, reducing stomach acid and saliva production. This helps manage symptoms associated with these conditions.
What is Glycopyrronium used for?
Glycopyrrolate is indicated for the treatment of peptic ulcers in adults and children over 12 years old. It is also used to reduce chronic severe drooling in children aged 3 to 16 years with neurological conditions.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Glycopyrronium?
Glycopyrrolate is typically used for short-term treatment, especially in children, to manage symptoms like drooling. The duration can vary based on the condition being treated and the patient's response. Always follow your doctor's guidance on how long to use this medication.
How do I dispose of Glycopyrronium?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Glycopyrronium?
Glycopyrrolate should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Avoid taking it with high-fat meals, as this can reduce its effectiveness. Follow your doctor's instructions on dosage and timing.
How long does it take for Glycopyrronium to start working?
Glycopyrronium typically starts working within a few hours of taking it, with peak effects occurring within 1 to 2 hours. The full therapeutic effect may take a few days to become noticeable. Individual factors like age, overall health, and other medications can affect how quickly it works. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for using Glycopyrronium to ensure the best results.
How should I store Glycopyrronium?
Store glycopyrrolate in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not flush it down the toilet; instead, use a medicine take-back program for disposal.
What is the usual dose of Glycopyrronium?
For adults, the recommended dosage of glycopyrrolate tablets is 1 mg three times daily, with some patients requiring 2 mg at bedtime. The maximum daily dosage is 8 mg. For children aged 3 to 16 years, the oral solution is dosed based on weight, starting at 0.02 mg/kg three times daily, with a maximum of 0.1 mg/kg per dose, not exceeding 1.5 mg to 3 mg per dose.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Glycopyrronium be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the presence of glycopyrrolate in human milk or its effects on a breastfed infant. It may suppress lactation, so the benefits of breastfeeding should be weighed against the mother's need for the medication.
Can Glycopyrronium be taken safely while pregnant?
There is no substantial data on the use of glycopyrrolate during pregnancy. It is generally advised to avoid use unless absolutely necessary, as the potential risks to the fetus are unknown. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can I take Glycopyrronium with other prescription drugs?
Glycopyrrolate can interact with other anticholinergic drugs, increasing the risk of side effects. It may also affect the absorption of drugs that rely on gastrointestinal motility. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking to avoid interactions.
Can I take Glycopyrronium with vitamins or supplements?
There are no well-documented confirmed interactions between Glycopyrronium and vitamins or supplements. There is also no evidence suggesting a need for supplementation due to nutrient depletion caused by this medicine. However, it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and conditions before starting Glycopyrronium. This ensures safe and effective use of the medication and helps avoid potential interactions.
Does Glycopyrronium have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects that can occur with medication use. Glycopyrronium may cause dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and urinary retention, which are common side effects. Serious adverse effects, though rare, can include difficulty breathing or severe allergic reactions. If you experience any new or concerning symptoms, it's important to contact your healthcare provider. Never stop taking a medication without consulting your doctor, as they can help manage side effects and adjust your treatment if needed.
Does Glycopyrronium have any safety warnings?
Glycopyrronium comes with safety warnings, including the risk of worsening certain conditions like glaucoma, urinary retention, and severe constipation. These warnings are due to its effects on muscle relaxation and fluid retention. Symptoms to watch for include eye pain, difficulty urinating, or severe abdominal pain. If you experience any of these, contact your healthcare provider immediately. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and report any new or worsening symptoms while taking this medication.
Is Glycopyrronium addictive?
Glycopyrronium is not known to be addictive or habit-forming. It does not have the potential to cause physical or psychological dependence. Therefore, there are no specific behaviors or warning signs related to addiction with this medication. You can use it as prescribed by your healthcare provider without concern for addiction.
Is Glycopyrronium safe for the elderly?
Glycopyrrolate is not recommended for geriatric patients due to an increased risk of anticholinergic adverse reactions, which can lead to complications like urinary retention, bowel obstruction, and heat prostration. Elderly patients should use this medication only under close medical supervision.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Glycopyrronium?
Most people tolerate Glycopyrronium well, and occasional alcoholic drinks should not affect the way this medicine works. There are no well-established interactions between Glycopyrronium and alcohol that would interfere with its effectiveness or cause harm. However, it's always wise to consume alcohol in moderation and be aware of how your body responds. If you experience any unusual symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Glycopyrronium?
Glycopyrrolate can reduce the body's ability to cool off by sweating, which may limit exercise, especially in hot environments. If you experience symptoms like overheating or lack of sweating, stop exercising and seek medical advice.
Is it safe to stop Glycopyrronium?
Glycopyrronium is often used for long-term management of chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Stopping it abruptly can lead to a return of symptoms or worsening of the condition. There may not be specific withdrawal symptoms, but the underlying condition could become uncontrolled. It's crucial to consult with your doctor before stopping Glycopyrronium to avoid any potential risks or complications. Your doctor can guide you on how to safely discontinue the medication if necessary.
What are the most common side effects of Glycopyrronium?
A side effect is an unwanted effect of a medicine. Common side effects of Glycopyrronium include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and urinary retention. These effects are not experienced by everyone and can be mild and temporary. When starting a new medicine, some symptoms may be coincidental or due to other conditions. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication, as they can help manage side effects and adjust your treatment if needed.
Who should avoid taking Glycopyrronium?
Glycopyrrolate is contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, obstructive uropathies, gastrointestinal obstructions, and myasthenia gravis. It can cause increased intraocular pressure, worsen intestinal obstructions, and lead to heat prostration. Patients should avoid hot environments and consult their doctor if they experience severe side effects.