Mestinon SR

The active ingredient in Mestinon SR is pyridostigmine bromide. It is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that acts to prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, so it stays longer at the neuromuscular junction, which is found between nerve cells. This medication helps with symptoms of muscle weakness and restores muscle strength.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Mestinon SR. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Mestinon SR:

• This medication can be taken once or twice a day, but should be spaced by 6 hours. The extended-release tablet should be swallowed whole and taken with food if stomach upset occurs.
• In the case of missed doses, skip it and take the next dose at the intended time.

Some common side effects of Mestinon SR include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Muscle cramps
• Muscle twitching
• Excessive salivation

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Mestinon SR. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Myasthenic crisis: muscle weakness and difficulty breathing
• Allergic reaction: skin rash or hives, swelling of the face or lips, or trouble breathing

These are not all of the possible side effects of Mestinon SR. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Mestinon SR, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Known allergy to the medication or any of the inactive ingredients
• Have a urinary obstruction
• History of asthma
• Kidney disease
• Smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs

• Known allergy to Mestinon SR or any of its inactive ingredients
• Known allergy to medications within the same drug class
• Blockage in the intestines or urinary tract

This medication will take a few hours to begin working.

When Mestinon SR is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Allergy or cold drugs
• Dexamethasone (Decadron)
• Hydrocortisone (Hydrocortone)
• Magnesium
• Heart arrhythmia medicines
• Sleeping pills
• Vitamins
• Atropine
• Neostigmine

The dosage forms include sustained-release tablets, oral solution, and immediate-release tablets. For the extended-release tablet, a 180 mg tablet can be taken orally once or twice daily.

This medication should be stored at room temperature and in a dry place.

The pharmaceutical company that manufactures Mestinon SR is Bausch Health.

There are lower-cost alternatives for the brand-name Mestinon SR.

This medication can be stopped without tapering. However, discuss this with your doctor before stopping any medication.

There is no information on whether this medication can affect your unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known if this medication can pass through the breastmilk and affect your baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.