Mestinon (Pyridostigmine)

Description

Mestinon is a treatment for myasthenia gravis. It acts as an inhibitor of the enzyme cholinesterase. The main components of this medication is pyridostigmine bromide.

 

 

 

Uses

 

Mestinon is used to treat myasthenia gravis. Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the nervous system of the body. It causes people to often feel fatigued and to experience tiredness of the muscles. There are junctions present between the nervous system and the muscles. This is where the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors reside. Myasthenia gravis causes the body’s own defenses to begin attacking these receptors. This causes a disruption between the communication between the nervous system and the muscles. Mestinon prevents the cholinesterase enzyme from breaking down acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is required to aid the transmission of nerve impulses to and from the muscles to the nervous system. This allows the proper functioning of the muscles in the body.

 

To find out what else this medication can do for you, contact your doctor.

 

Dosage

 

You should always use the prescription for Mestinon that your physician has given you. Do not take this medication in lower or higher dosages than has been directed.

 

Mestinon is a medication that should be consumed orally.

 

The dosage that is recommended for Mestinon syrup is 5 ml. This should be taken ten times a day. The doses should be taken to reduce the symptoms of the disease.

 

The recommended dose for the Mestinon 60 mg tablets are 600 mg. These should be taken in 60 mg doses, ten times a day. The tablets should be taken when there is relief required from the symptoms.

 

In the event that you forgot to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next scheduled dose is due soon, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together.

 

In the case of an overdose, call your nearest emergency medical services.

 

Side Effects

 

The side effects that you may experience when prescribed Mestinon are:

 

 Unusual bowel movements
 Discomfort in the abdominal area
 Stomach cramps
 Increase in gassiness
 Nausea
 Increased need to urinate more often
 Cramps during menstruation

 

If you experience any of these side effects, contact your physician immediately.

 

Contraindications

 

It is uncertain if Mestinon causes any side effects in pregnant women or breast feeding mothers. Inform your physician if you have become pregnant or are nursing a child.

 

Do not use this medication if you have had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in Mestinon.

 

Do not take Mestinon if you have also been prescribed quinine or quinidine.

 

This medication may be harmful to you if you have any obstructions in your bowels, digestive system, or urinary system.

 

Inform your physician if you have had a history of heart conditions or if you are currently suffering from any heart-related ailments.

 

Substances such as succinylcholine may increase the adverse effects of Mestinon. Inform your doctor if you have been prescribed this medication.

 

Tell your physician of any medications, prescribed or over the counter, which you may be taking. Also inform your doctor if you are taking any herbal supplements.