This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Bentyl Consumer Information
BENTYL
Generic Name: dicyclomine (dye SYE kloe meen)
Brand Names: Bentyl
What is the most important information I should know about dicyclomine?
- Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Dicyclomine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities.
- Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking dicyclomine.
- Avoid becoming overheated in hot weather. Dicyclomine increases the risk of heat stroke because it causes decreased sweating.
What is dicyclomine?
- Dicyclomine relieves spasms of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines) by blocking the actions of spasm-causing chemicals in the body.
- Dicyclomine is used to treat functional bowel or irritable bowel syndrome.
- Dicyclomine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take dicyclomine?
- Do not take dicyclomine if you have
- a blockage of your urinary tract (difficulty urinating);
- a blockage in your intestines;
- reflux disease;
- glaucoma; or
- myasthenia gravis.
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- numbness or tingling in your hands or feet;
- liver disease;
- kidney disease;
- ulcerative colitis;
- thyroid problems;
- high blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, or any type of heart disease;
- hiatal hernia; or
- enlargement of the prostate.
- Dicyclomine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take dicyclomine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- Do not take dicyclomine if you are breast-feeding a baby. Dicyclomine can cause serious breathing problems in infants younger than 6 months of age.
How should I take dicyclomine?
- Take dicyclomine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of dicyclomine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
- Store dicyclomine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a dicyclomine overdose include headache; nausea; vomiting; dry mouth; difficulty swallowing; blurred vision; dilated pupils; hot, dry skin; dizziness; drowsiness; confusion; anxiety; seizures; weak pulse; and an irregular heartbeat.
What should I avoid while taking dicyclomine?
- Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Dicyclomine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities.
- Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking dicyclomine.
- Avoid becoming overheated in hot weather. Dicyclomine increases the risk of heat stroke because it decreases sweating.
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