What it is used for
- Cramping and spasm of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Functional gut spasm and colicky abdominal pain
How it works
Dicyclomine relaxes the muscle in the wall of the gut, reducing the spasms that cause cramping, colicky pain, and discomfort in conditions such as IBS.
How it is taken
Comes as tablets, capsules, oral liquid, and an injectable form in some settings. It is taken by mouth, often before meals. Take it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist, or the label directs.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness or drowsiness
- Constipation
- Difficulty passing urine
Serious effects — get help
- Severe eye pain or vision changes (possible acute glaucoma)
- Inability to pass urine
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Confusion, especially in older adults
- Severe allergic reaction
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other antimuscarinic medicines (some antidepressants, antihistamines, bladder and Parkinson's drugs)
- Sedatives and alcohol (added drowsiness)
- Medicines affecting heart rate
Who should take care
- Avoid or use with caution with glaucoma, an enlarged prostate or urinary retention, or certain heart and bowel conditions
- Not recommended for infants and used cautiously in older adults
- Discuss pregnancy and breastfeeding with your clinician
- Avoid alcohol, which adds to drowsiness
- Have new or severe abdominal pain assessed rather than self-treating