Colospa (MEBEVERINE HYDROCHLORIDE) is a musculotropic antispasmodic agent used to relieve cramps or spasms of the stomach and intestines (gut). It is particularly useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and similar conditions. It works by relaxing the muscles and helping to restore the normal movement of the gut.

Common uses

This medicine acts directly on the smooth muscle in the gut causing it to relax. It also prevents nerve signals getting through to the muscle in the intestines. This also causes the muscle to relax, preventing painful muscle spasm. Little or no antispasmodic effect was seen on the uterus and the bronchial muscles. Gastric emptying time and intestinal propulsion were affected much less than by papaverine. No significant inhibition of normal peristalsis has been observed.
Primary irritable colon characterised by persistent diarrhoea, alternating constipation and diarrhoea, abdominal pain and postprandial distension. Secondary irritable colon due to organic lesions such as regional enteritis, diverticulitis, specific and non-specific inflammatory conditions of the gastro-intestinal tract.

Before using

Caution should be exercised in porphyria or allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.


Directions

Colospa is most effective when taken 20 minutes before meals. After a several weeks when the desired effect has been obtained, the dosage may be gradually reduced.
Adults, elderly and children over 10 years: One tablet three times a day.
If a dose of this medicine is missed that should be taken as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and the regular dosing schedule should be maintained. Dose should not be doubled at the same time to compensate the missed dose.

Cautions

Use with caution in: Failure of function of part of the gut causing an obstruction (paralytic ileus); Life long inherited blood diseases which can cause a variety of symptoms, including mental health problems (porphyrias).

Possible side effects

Generally Mebeverine is well tolerated. However, few side-effects like skin rash, urticaria and angioedema may appear.

If you take too much

On theoretical grounds it may be predicted that CNS excitability will occur in case of overdosage. No specific antidote is known: gastric lavage and symptomatic treatment is recommended.

Additional information

For women: Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor. There are no known harmful effects when this medicine is used by breastfeeding mothers.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.