Mestinon

The active ingredient in Mestinon is pyridostigmine bromide. Because it is a cholinesterase inhibitor, the mechanism of action prevents a protein called cholinesterase from degrading acetylcholine, a substance in your body that is required for communication between nerve cells and muscles. As a result, Mestinon allows more acetylcholine to stay in your body and activate your muscles. This helps to reduce muscle weakness.

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. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Mestinon:

• You can take this medication with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk.
• Do not chew, crush, or break the extended-release tablet (Mestinon Timespan). Swallow it fully.
• Use the accompanying dosing syringe, a special dose-measuring spoon, or a medicine cup to measure the oral solution. If you don't have a dose-measuring instrument, ask your pharmacist for one.
• The dose and timing of this medication are critical to the success of your treatment. Carefully follow your doctor's directions for how much medicine to take and when.
• If you require surgery, inform the surgeon ahead of time that you are on Mestinon. You may need to stop taking the medication for a brief period.

The most common side effects of Mestinon are usually do to taking too much medication. This includes:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Stomach cramps.
• Muscle cramps.
• Muscle twitching.
• Abdominal cramps.
• Trouble breathing.
• Excessive salivation.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Mestinon. 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: acute muscle weakness and difficulty breathing.
• Allergic reaction to the medication, such as a skin rash or hives.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Mestinon. 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, 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 allergies to it or any of the inactive ingredients.
• Have a urinary obstruction.
• Have asthma.
• Have kidney disease.
• Smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs.

Urinary or intestinal blockage.

Pyridostigmine (Mestinon) takes around 15 to 30 minutes to begin working. Speak with your doctor about your treatment plan to ensure you're getting the most out of the prescription to aid with muscle weakness throughout the day.

When Mestinon 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-rich goods.
• Heart arrhythmia medicines.
• Sleeping pills.
• Vitamins.
• Atropine.
• Neostigmine.

The normal oral dose is 600 mg per day. People with moderate myasthenia gravis may only require 60 to 360 mg per day. However, people with more severe myasthenia gravis may require up to 1,500 mg each day. Your doctor will help you spread out your entire dose throughout the day.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Store at room temperature, in a cool, dry place.

Bausch Health Companies Inc. is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Mestinon.

There are several lower-cost generic versions of Mestinon available.

You mustn't discontinue your medicine without consulting your doctor first. Stopping the drug or skipping too many doses can result in increased muscle weakness.

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.

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.