From the Research
For an 8-year-old child weighing more than 48kg, the recommended Buscopan (hyoscine butylbromide) dosage is 10mg taken up to three times daily, as the child's weight exceeds 40kg, making the adult dose applicable 1. The medication should be given when abdominal pain or cramping occurs, with at least 6 hours between doses, and no more than three doses in 24 hours. Buscopan works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and associated pain, as it has a high affinity for muscarinic receptors located on the smooth-muscle cells of the GI tract 2. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water, preferably 20 minutes before meals. Side effects may include dry mouth, blurred vision, or constipation. If symptoms persist beyond 3 days or worsen, consult a healthcare provider. This medication should not be used long-term without medical supervision, and you should inform the doctor about any other medications the child is taking to avoid potential interactions. It is essential to note that hyoscine butylbromide should be used with caution in patients with cardiac comorbidities, as it is contraindicated in patients with tachycardia, angina, and cardiac failure 3. Additionally, the use of hyoscine butylbromide in pediatric patients requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits, as well as close monitoring for any adverse effects. The most recent study on the use of hyoscine butylbromide in pain reduction associated with ultrasound-guided manual vacuum aspiration found that it produced an insignificant decrease in abdominal pain score, suggesting that further studies are needed to determine its efficacy in this context 4.