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What Is a Spasmolytic?

By Meshell Powell
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 16,383
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Spasmolytic drugs are prescription medications which are most commonly used to reduce or prevent muscle spasms, especially spasms in the digestive tract. These medications are often formulated from an herb known as belladonna, although synthetic chemicals which serve the same purpose may sometimes be used instead. Spasmolytic medications may be habit-forming, so it is vitally important that these medications are taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor and not used by anyone other than the person for whom they are prescribed. Some of the most common side effects of spasmolytic drugs may include drowsiness, dizziness, gastrointestinal disturbances, or insomnia.

Intestinal spasms are among the most frequently diagnosed medical conditions for which spasmolytic medications are prescribed. These spasms are frequently caused by gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease. This type of medication may also be used to treat other conditions such as urinary spasms or other muscle spasms throughout the body. Peptic ulcers often respond well to this type of treatment as well.

Spasmolytic medications should not be used in combination with certain other medications, including some herbal or vitamin supplements. For instance, those who are taking potassium supplements may not be able to take this medication. Some prescription medications, especially those used to treat insomnia, allergies, or pain conditions may increase sleepiness and may not work well along with this type of drug. Extreme caution should be used when performing any activity which requires intense focus or concentration. Alcohol should never be consumed while taking a spasmolytic drug.

Patients with some medical conditions may not be good candidates for this type of treatment. The doctor should be notified of any existing health issues, especially intestinal disorders or prostate problems. Those with compromised kidney or liver function may need to be monitored closely if taking this type of drug. Any questions o r concerns about the use of spasmolytic medications should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.

Drowsiness and dizziness are the most commonly reported side effects of spasmolytic medications. In most cases, these side effects are greatly minimized after the body adjusts to the medication. Severe or persistent problems should be reported to a doctor. Insomnia, headache, and stomach upset may occur, although these symptoms are usually mild. More serious side effects, such as rapid heartbeat, mouth sores, or eye pain accompanied by blurred vision should be reported to a doctor right away for further medical evaluation.

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Discussion Comments
By SteamLouis — On Mar 09, 2012

I have irritable bowel syndrome and those who have it know the kind of pain and cramping that can come with it. Anytime I have any food that's irritating, it's like going to hell and back for me. The only thing which has helped has been spasmolytics.

Of course, they come with their downside. Every drug I've used in my life has given me some side effects or the other. Spasmolytics make me sleepy and rarely I will get blurred vision too. But it's a small price to pay for the relief I get.

@burcidi-- I second @feruze's thoughts on this. The spasmolytic I'm on right now is very affordable. Your doctor can probably find a more affordable one for you. Generics are always another option. Most of the time, generic spasmolytics are exactly the same as the original but half the price. Just make sure to follow your doctor's directions to the T when taking them.

By bear78 — On Mar 09, 2012

@burcidi-- It is a little bit of trial and error. I've heard from others that this happens a lot with spasmolytic drugs. There are many different kinds out there, some herbal, some synthetic, some generic. I tried two different types of spasmolytics without results. The third one I tried finally worked, and it relieved all of my symptoms.

I've heard this from quite a few people actually. Even though they are all spasmolytics, there are differences and one that works for one person might not work so well for another.

I agree with your doctor that you should try another kind. You might be able to cut costs if your doctor prescribes a low dose or if you only have some of the prescription filled. That way, you can try the medication and if it doesn't work, you won't have lost too much money.

By burcidi — On Mar 08, 2012

My doctor prescribed an antispasmodic with spasmolytic effects for me last week because of intense stomach cramps and bloating I've been having lately. I took the prescribed dose but it didn't work for me at all. I also experienced some of the side effects like diarrhea and blurred vision which was really uncomfortable. I only took it for a week and quit as the bloating and cramping didn't decrease at all.

My doc now wants me to try another kind of spasmolytic but I'm not so sure. Is finding a spasmolytic medication which works a matter of trial and error? Has anyone else taken them without results as I have? Do you think I should try other brands and look for something which works?

The brand I did take was kind of expensive. I don't know if that's the case with them all. But I don't want to waste a lot of money if this type of drug is just not going to work for me.

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