From the Research
Drotaverine is an antispasmodic medication primarily used to relieve smooth muscle spasms and pain, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and female reproductive system. It works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase IV enzyme, which leads to increased levels of cyclic AMP and subsequent relaxation of smooth muscles. The typical adult dosage is 40-80 mg taken three times daily, with a maximum daily dose of 240 mg.
Key Points
- Drotaverine is commonly prescribed for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, renal colic, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), and to assist during the first stage of labor, as shown in a study published in the Saudi journal of gastroenterology 1.
- Side effects are generally mild and may include headache, nausea, vomiting, hypotension, and allergic reactions, as reported in a case study published in Experimental and therapeutic medicine 2.
- This medication should be used with caution in patients with severe liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, and is typically not recommended during pregnancy except during labor.
- Drotaverine is available in tablet form and as injectable solutions for more acute situations, and its efficacy and safety have been demonstrated in a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study 1.
- Unlike some other antispasmodics, drotaverine does not affect the central nervous system and has no anticholinergic effects, making it better tolerated by many patients, as noted in a study published in the World journal of gastroenterology 3.
- A recent observational study published in the Journal of clinical medicine found that drotaverine significantly reduced the severity of all symptoms for which it was taken, and it was perceived as effective and tolerable by patients and general practitioners 4.