What is the proper use and dosage of Hyomax (hyoscyamine) for gastrointestinal disorders?

From the Guidelines

Hyoscyamine (Hyomax) should be used at a standard adult dosage of 0.125 mg to 0.25 mg taken orally every 4 hours as needed, not exceeding 1.5 mg in 24 hours, for the management of gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, as supported by the most recent guidelines 1. The medication works by relaxing smooth muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and associated symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, and excessive secretions. For extended-release formulations, the usual dose is 0.375 mg to 0.75 mg taken every 12 hours. Key considerations include:

• Children's dosing varies by weight and age and should be determined by a healthcare provider.
• The medication should be taken 30-60 minutes before meals for best results.
• Common side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.
• Hyoscyamine should be used with caution in elderly patients and those with glaucoma, urinary retention, or certain heart conditions.
• Always follow your doctor's specific instructions, as dosing may be adjusted based on your particular condition and response to treatment, as indicated by recent clinical practice guidelines 1. Some studies suggest that antispasmodics, including hyoscyamine, can provide relief for symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, although the evidence is not uniformly strong 1. However, given the potential benefits and the relatively low risk of serious adverse events when used appropriately, hyoscyamine remains a viable option for the management of gastrointestinal disorders, particularly when used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

From the FDA Drug Label

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Dosage may be adjusted according to the conditions and severity of symptoms. The tablets may be taken sublingually, orally or chewed. Adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older 1 to 2 tablets every four hours or as needed. Do not exceed 12 tablets in 24 hours Pediatric patients 2 to under 12 years of age ½ to 1 tablet every four hours or as needed. Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Hyoscyamine sulfate is indicated whenever antispasmodic or anticholinergic therapy is desired. The high degree of purity allows effective action at very low dosage, with a minimal incidence of unwanted side effects.

The proper use and dosage of Hyomax (hyoscyamine) for gastrointestinal disorders is as follows:

• Adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older: 1 to 2 tablets every four hours or as needed, do not exceed 12 tablets in 24 hours.
• Pediatric patients 2 to under 12 years of age: ½ to 1 tablet every four hours or as needed, do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours. Hyoscyamine is indicated for antispasmodic or anticholinergic therapy, which can be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders 2 2.

From the Research

Hyomax (Hyoscyamine) Overview

• Hyomax, also known as hyoscyamine, is a medication used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) 3, 4, 5.
• It belongs to a class of medications called antispasmodics, which work by relaxing the muscles in the stomach and intestines to relieve cramps, spasms, and discomfort.

Proper Use and Dosage

• The proper use and dosage of Hyomax (hyoscyamine) for gastrointestinal disorders vary depending on the individual patient and the specific condition being treated 3, 4.
• According to one study, antispasmodics like hyoscyamine are often used intermittently in response to periods of increased abdominal pain, cramps, and urgency 3.
• Another study suggests that hyoscyamine can be used to treat chronic abdominal pain in patients with functional GI disorders, but the efficacy and safety of antispasmodics can vary greatly depending on the individual agent and patient population 4.

Administration and Pharmacokinetics

• Hyoscyamine can be administered orally or sublingually, and its pharmacokinetics can vary depending on the dosage form and individual patient factors 6.
• One study found that hyoscyamine has a limited bioavailability when administered orally, and its maximum drug concentration occurs approximately 0.5 hours after oral administration 6.

Side Effects and Interactions

• Hyoscyamine can cause side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, and vertigo, and can interact with other medications, including antacids and other antispasmodics 3, 6.
• Patients taking hyoscyamine should be monitored for signs of adverse effects, and the medication should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as glaucoma or urinary retention 6.