What is Bentyl used for?

Bentyl (dicyclomine) is an oral medication available in tablet, capsule, and syrup forms. It’s FDA-approved to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other functional bowel disorders up to four times a day.

Understanding Bentyl

Bentyl is used extensively to manage IBS, which affects about 11% of the global population. IBS impacts the lower intestines causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, indigestion, and irregular stool movements including diarrhea and constipation.

Bentyl Mechanism of Action

Bentyl works as an antispasmodic by reducing muscle spasms in the gut. This helps alleviate pain and cramping associated with IBS.

How to Take Bentyl

Dosing for Bentyl is determined by your healthcare provider. It is crucial to follow the prescribed directions and not alter the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider. Bentyl can be taken as a tablet, capsule, or syrup. For syrup forms, use a medication measuring device to ensure the correct dose.

Drug Interactions

Bentyl may interact with other medications, potentially altering their effects or exacerbating side effects. These can include:

  • Glaucoma medications
  • Other anticholinergic drugs
  • Antidepressants like TCAs and MAOIs
  • Sedatives and insomnia medications
  • Alzheimer’s disease medications
  • Anxiety medications
  • Antihistamines or cold medications
  • Amantadine
  • Antacids
  • Digoxin
  • Disopyramide
  • Metoclopramide

Side Effects of Bentyl

Common side effects of Bentyl include:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea

More serious side effects may include:

  • Severe allergic reactions like hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing
  • Heart issues such as increased or irregular heartbeat
  • Mental health changes like confusion or hallucinations
  • Decreased production of saliva and sweat, increasing heat stroke risk
  • Muscle weakness or paralysis, especially in overdose
  • Difficulty urinating, particularly in those with prostate issues

Contraindications for Bentyl

Bentyl should not be used by individuals who:

  • Are allergic to dicyclomine or any inactive ingredients
  • Are breastfeeding
  • Are under six months old
  • Have glaucoma
  • Have urinary or GI tract blockages
  • Have myasthenia gravis
  • Have severe ulcerative colitis
  • Have reflux esophagitis

Precautions Before Taking Bentyl

Inform your healthcare provider about any existing conditions like liver or kidney disease, heart issues, or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

What to Do If You Miss a Dose

If you miss a dose of Bentyl, take the next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose.

Overdose Information

In case of an overdose, symptoms may include severe headache, nausea, and muscle weakness. Contact emergency services immediately.

Storage Instructions

Store Bentyl at room temperature away from heat and light.

Related Medications

  • Levsin (hyoscyamine sulfate)
  • Viberzi (eluxadoline)
  • Amitiza (lubiprostone)
  • Linzess (linaclotide)
  • Trulance (plecanatide)

Sources

For more detailed information on Bentyl, refer to the FDA’s prescribing information and resources like Medscape and the Prescriber’s Digital Reference.