Levsin
Generic Name: Hyoscyamine
Brand name: Levsin
Indications
Levsin is effective as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of peptic ulcer. It can also be used to control gastric secretion, visceral spasm and hypermotility in spastic colitis, spastic bladder, cystitis, pylorospasm, and associated abdominal cramps.
Dosage and Administration
Levsin is available for oral administration as 0.125mg tablets.
Normal dosage: Dosage may be adjusted according to the conditions and severity of symptoms.
Adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older: 1 to 2 tablets every four hours or as needed. Do not exceed 12 tablets in 24 hours.
Pediatric patients 2 to under 12 years of age: 1/2 to 1 tablet every four hours or as needed. Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours.
Overdose: Overdose symptoms include headache; nausea; vomiting; dry mouth; difficulty in swallowing; blurred vision; dilated pupils; hot, dry skin, dizziness; drowsiness; confusion; anxiety; seizures; weak pulse; and an irregular heartbeat
Drug Description
Levsin is one of the principal anticholinergic/antispasmodic components of belladonna alkaloids. The empirical formula is (C17H23NO3)2·H2SO4·2H2O and the molecular weight is 712.85. Chemically, it is benzeneacetic acid, a-(hydroxymethyl)-, 8-methyl-8-azabicyclo [3.2.1.] oct-3-yl ester, [3(S)-endo)-, sulfate (2:1),dihydrate.
Side effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking L-hyoscyamine and seek emergency medical attention:
- an allergic reaction
- an irregular or fast heart rate
Precautions
- Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision.
- Avoid alcohol.
- This medication increases the risk of heat stroke because it causes decreased sweating.
Drug Interactions
It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Levsin with the following drugs:
- Amantadine
- Antacids
- Antidepressant drugs such as amitriptyline, imipramine, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine
- Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine
- Major tranquilizers such as chlorpromazine and haloperidol
- Other antispasmodic drugs such as dicyclomine
- Potassium supplements
