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Pyridostigmine

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Mestinon

Pyridostigmine - What is it for

Pyridostigmine is used to treat the symptoms of myasthenia gravis, which is an immune system related condition that causes weakness in certain muscles. These include muscles around the eyes, jaw, face, neck, arm or leg and muscles that help with breathing.

Pyridostigmine - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Pyridostigmine cause?

Common side effects include:

  • Drowsiness
    • Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require concentration
  • Blurred vision
    • Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require concentration
  • Stomach upset
    • Take this medication with or after food to reduce stomach upset
  • Diarrhea
    • Drink more water to replace the loss of fluids
  • Increased saliva
  • Increased sweating
  • Increased frequency of urination
  • Muscle twitching

Inform your doctor if you develop any of these possible symptoms of worsening myasthenia gravis:

  • Weakness of the eye muscles
  • Drooping of one or both eyes
  • Trouble swallowing or breathing
  • Trouble with speaking
  • Severe muscle weakness

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Before taking Pyridostigmine , what precautions must I follow?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

  • You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
  • You have a history of:
    • Heart condition
    • Kidney condition
    • Lung condition such as asthma
    • Glaucoma (high pressure in eyes)
    • Urinary condition
  • You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Pyridostigmine ?

​Avoid drinking alcohol while taking pyridostigmine as it may cause excessive drowsiness.

Pyridostigmine - Dosage and How to Use

How should Pyridostigmine be used?

  • Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
  • This medication should be taken with or after food to reduce stomach upset.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

Pyridostigmine - Handling

How should I handle Pyridostigmine safely?

Pyridostigmine - Storage

How should I store Pyridostigmine ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#

How should I dispose of Pyridostigmine safely?

​Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.

Pyridostigmine - Additional Information

  • Updated on 9/30/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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