Pyridostigmine
Uses of Pyridostigmine
Pyridostigmine is commonly used to treat Myasthenia Gravis, Paralytic Ileus, Post Operative Urinary Retention, Reversal Of Effect Of Skeletal Muscle Relaxant After Surgery
How Pyridostigmine Works
Pyridostigmine is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which will increase the acetylcholine level by preventing them from breaking down. This mechanism can increase and maintain skeletal muscles activity.
Side Effects of Pyridostigmine
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Increased bronchial secretions, Blurred vision, Excessive salivation and sweating, Abdominal cramps, Bradycardia, Bronchospasm, Skin rash, Muscle spasm
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Dose adjustment is needed in patients with kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Alcohol may accentuate the side effects of Pyridostigmine such as blurring of vision. Thus, it is not advisable to consume alcohol with Pyridostigmine concomitantly.
Pregnancy Not Safe
The safety profile of Pyridostigmine during pregnancy has not been established, but clinical experience has shown that there are no known reproductive toxicities caused by Pyridostigmine use during pregnancy. Thus, caution use has to be practised during pregnancy. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Pyridostigmine may cause side effects such as blurring of vision which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
Pyridostigmine is safe to be used in patients with liver impairment.
Lactation Not Advisable
Excretion of Pyridostigmine has been shown in human breast milk but only in minimal amount. However, it is not advisable to be used during breastfeeding as risks cannot be excluded. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
