Spasmocin (Hyoscine-N-butylbromide)

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Spasmocin has significant contraindications and should only be used as prescribed by a doctor.

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Spasmocin (Hyoscine Butylbromide): A Complete Guide to the Antispasmodic

Manufacturer: Memphis Co. For Pharm. & Chem. Ind., Cairo, Egypt

Category: Antispasmodic / Anticholinergic

Active Ingredient: Hyoscine-N-butylbromide

Available Forms: Spasmocin is available in a comprehensive range of dosage forms:

• Tablets: 10 mg
• Syrup: 5 mg / 5 ml (equivalent to 100mg/100ml)
• Suppositories: 15 mg
• Ampoules for Injection (IM/IV): 20 mg / 1 ml

Summary

Spasmocin (Hyoscine-N-butylbromide) is a widely used antispasmodic medication designed to relieve cramps and spasms in the smooth muscles of the abdomen and pelvis. This includes the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, intestines), biliary tract (gallbladder), and genitourinary tract (bladder, ureters). It is effective for conditions ranging from general abdominal cramps and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) to severe, acute pain like renal or biliary colic.

Mechanism of Action: How Spasmocin Works

Spasmocin is an anticholinergic agent. It works by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors located on smooth muscle cells. By blocking these signals, it prevents the involuntary muscle contractions that cause spasms and pain, leading to muscle relaxation and symptom relief. Because it is a quaternary ammonium compound, it does not easily cross the blood-brain barrier, meaning it has fewer central nervous system side effects (like drowsiness or confusion) than some other anticholinergic drugs.

Therapeutic Indications: When is Spasmocin Used?

The choice of dosage form depends on the severity and location of the spasm:

• Oral (Tablets & Syrup) and Rectal (Suppositories): For the relief of less acute conditions such as:
  • Abdominal cramps associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
  • General gastrointestinal spasms.
  • Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea).
• Parenteral (Injection): For acute, severe spasms where rapid relief is required, such as:
  • Renal colic (severe pain from kidney stones).
  • Biliary colic (pain from gallstones).
  • To reduce spasm during diagnostic procedures like endoscopy or radiology.

Dosage and Administration

Dosage should be determined by a physician.

• Adults (Oral): 1-2 tablets (10-20 mg) three to four times daily.
• Adults (Injection): 1 ampoule (20 mg) via slow IV or IM injection, which can be repeated after 30 minutes if necessary. Maximum daily dose is 100 mg.
• Pediatrics: Not generally recommended, especially the injectable form. Oral use in children should be strictly under medical supervision.

Key Contraindications, Warnings, and Side Effects

• Contraindications: Strictly contraindicated in patients with myasthenia gravis, megacolon, narrow-angle glaucoma, tachycardia (very fast heart rate), and prostatic enlargement with urinary retention.
• Side Effects: Most side effects are related to its anticholinergic action and can include:
  • Dry mouth, constipation.
  • Tachycardia (increased heart rate), flushing.
  • Difficulty urinating (urinary retention).
  • Visual disturbances (disorders of accommodation, blurred vision).
• Warnings:
  • Use with caution in patients with conditions characterized by a fast heart rate (e.g., thyrotoxicosis, cardiac insufficiency).
  • Can increase intraocular pressure and should be used with extreme caution in patients at risk for glaucoma.
  • Parenteral administration can, in rare cases, cause anaphylactic reactions, including shock.
• Driving and Machinery: Patients may experience visual disturbances after injection and should not drive or operate machinery until their vision has normalized.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Spasmocin (Hyoscine) and Spasmotalin (Mebeverine)?

Both treat cramps, but they work differently. Spasmocin (Hyoscine) is an anticholinergic that blocks nerve signals to the muscle. Spasmotalin (Mebeverine) is a musculotropic that acts directly on the muscle itself. This means Spasmocin is more likely to cause side effects like dry mouth and blurred vision, while Mebeverine generally does not.

Why is Spasmocin contraindicated in glaucoma?

As an anticholinergic drug, Spasmocin can cause the pupil to dilate and can increase the pressure inside the eye, which is dangerous for individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma.

Can I buy the injection over the counter?

No. The injectable form is for professional medical use only, typically in clinics or hospitals, for treating acute and severe conditions. The oral forms may be available from a pharmacist, but always consult a healthcare professional first.

Sources

1. Hyoscine Butylbromide Injection Information - Drugs.com
2. Hyoscine - StatPearls, NCBI
3. Official Product Leaflet for Spasmocin.