Alverine citrate

About Alverine Citrate

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antispasmodics.

Alverine is used to relieve cramps or spasms of the stomach and intestines (gut). It is particularly useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and similar conditions. It can also be used to help relieve period pain.

Alverine is available in capsule form.

It is also sometimes known as: Spasmonal. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Alverine Citrate

Before taking Alverine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from paralytic ileus (a problem with the movement of waste through the gut)
• if you suffer from any blockages of the bowel other than normal constipation
• if you have been constipated for more than one week
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Alverine Citrate

• Take Alverine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take Alverine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you miss a dose of Alverine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue taking at the usual times. Never take two doses at the same time to make up.
• Alverine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Alverine, contact your doctor or 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.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor, so your progress can be monitored.
• Before buying any over the counter medicines check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Alverine.
• Alverine may cause dizziness. Make sure you are unaffected before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were to become dizzy.

Can Alverine Citrate cause problems?

As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Feeling sick, headaches, itching, skin rashes or dizziness.

If you experience any other symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Alverine Citrate

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Do not keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 27/01/2005