Neostigmine is commonly used to treat myasthenia gravis.
If you have to take steroids, your dose of neostigmine may be reduced.
About neostigmine
Type of medicine
Anticholinesterase
Used for
Myasthenia gravis, a muscle-weakening disease Paralysis of the intestine Difficulty passing water after an operation
Available as
Tablets
Neostigmine works by prolonging the action of acetylcholine, which is found naturally in the body. Acetylcholine stimulates a type of receptor called muscarinic receptors; when stimulated, these receptors have a range of effects.
Before taking neostigmine
Before taking neostigmine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you have a blockage in your gut or urinary tract (waterworks).
If you suffer from asthma.
If you suffer from epilepsy or Parkinson's disease.
If you suffer from heart trouble, including low blood pressure and slow heart rate.
If you have a stomach ulcer.
If you have kidney problems.
How to take neostigmine
If being treated for myasthenia gravis, you will probably take doses at several intervals throughout the day, when maximum strength is needed (for example, on rising and before mealtimes).
Getting the most from your treatment
Keep your appointments with your doctor so that your response to treatment can be checked
If you are prescribed steroids ask your doctor if you need to alter your dose of neostigmine
Can neostigmine cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine
What can I do if I experience this
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
Stick to simple foods such as dry toast Drink plenty of liquid
Increased salivation, abdominal cramps
Talk to your doctor
How to store neostigmine
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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