Buscopan (Hyoscine Butylbromide) Dosing for Adults
For adults, the recommended dose of Buscopan is 1-2 tablets (10-20 mg) every 4 hours as needed, not exceeding 12 tablets (120 mg) in 24 hours, and the tablets may be taken sublingually, orally, or chewed. 1
Standard Oral Dosing
- Adults and patients ≥12 years: 1-2 tablets (10-20 mg) every 4 hours or as needed 1
- Maximum daily dose: 12 tablets (120 mg) in 24 hours 1
- Administration options: Tablets may be taken sublingually, orally, or chewed 1
Intravenous Dosing for Diagnostic Procedures
When used intravenously for gastrointestinal radiography and diagnostic procedures:
- Standard IV dose: 10-20 mg provides adequate spasmolytic effect 2
- For double contrast barium enema: 20 mg IV is effective and safe, allowing significantly greater colonic distension 3
- Oral administration is ineffective: 20 mg oral Buscopan does not alter colonic dimensions during procedures, making IV the preferred route for diagnostic imaging 3
Clinical Efficacy Context
The dosing recommendations are supported by clinical evidence demonstrating:
- Therapeutic dose range: 30 mg/day orally (divided doses) has shown efficacy in treating irritable bowel syndrome and abdominal cramping 4
- Low systemic absorption: Bioavailability is generally <1% after oral administration, but the drug maintains high tissue affinity for muscarinic receptors at the site of action in the intestine 5
- Mechanism: Hyoscine butylbromide exerts anticholinergic effects with high affinity for muscarinic receptors on GI smooth muscle, producing spasmolytic effects 5
Safety Profile
- Well-tolerated: Few adverse events reported, with no significant increases in anticholinergic-related side effects 5
- Minimal systemic effects: Does not penetrate the blood-brain barrier due to poor absorption 5
- Safe in elderly: No side effects observed with IV Buscopan even in elderly patients during diagnostic procedures 3
- Adverse event rate: Only 5% of patients experienced adverse effects in clinical trials, none requiring treatment 4
Important Clinical Considerations
- Onset and duration: The spasmolytic effect occurs rapidly with IV administration, making it suitable for procedural use 2
- Dose adjustment: Dosage may be adjusted according to symptom severity and clinical conditions 1
- Pediatric dosing (2 to <12 years): ½ to 1 tablet every 4 hours as needed, not exceeding 6 tablets in 24 hours 1