Major research findings

Dicyclomine is a medication used to treat spasms in the digestive system and urinary tract. Studies have shown that it can be effective in treating conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and neurogenic bladder. For example, a study in 3 found that a sustained-release formulation of dicyclomine was as effective as the regular formulation. Another study in 11 found that dicyclomine had a lower risk of side effects compared to other anticholinergics, such as atropine and butyl scopolamine. Additionally, a study in 5 demonstrated the effectiveness of dicyclomine in treating infant colic. However, the same study also reported some serious side effects, including death, in 5% of infants treated with dicyclomine. It's important to remember that the effectiveness and side effects of dicyclomine can vary significantly from person to person, so caution is advised.

Reasons for side effects

Dicyclomine is classified as an anticholinergic drug, which means it blocks the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in muscle contraction. By blocking acetylcholine, dicyclomine can relax smooth muscle in the digestive system and urinary tract, which can lead to side effects such as constipation, dry mouth, blurred vision, and difficulty urinating.

Common side effects

Constipation

Dicyclomine can cause constipation by slowing down the movement of the intestines. This happens because dicyclomine reduces the water content of stool, making it harder to pass. Additionally, the drug can inhibit the movement of intestinal muscles, further contributing to constipation. Symptoms of constipation include changes in bowel movement frequency, harder stool, and pain during bowel movements. While a study in 7 showed that dicyclomine effectively reduced bladder contractions in patients with neurogenic bladder, it didn't report any cases of constipation.

Dry mouth

Dicyclomine can cause dry mouth by reducing the production of saliva. This happens because the drug inhibits the salivary glands, leading to a decrease in saliva production. Symptoms of dry mouth include feeling thirsty, a sensation of something stuck in the throat, and thicker saliva.

Blurred vision

Dicyclomine can cause blurred vision by constricting the pupils of the eyes. This happens because the drug blocks acetylcholine's action on the muscles that control pupil size. The constriction of pupils can make it harder for light to reach the retina properly, resulting in blurry vision. Symptoms of blurred vision include seeing objects in a blurry way, seeing double, and sensitivity to light.

Difficulty urinating

Dicyclomine can cause difficulty urinating by inhibiting the movement of the bladder muscles. This happens because the drug blocks acetylcholine's action on the bladder muscles, which are responsible for expelling urine. The inhibition of bladder muscle contraction can make it harder to urinate properly. Symptoms of difficulty urinating include difficulty starting to urinate, difficulty stopping the flow of urine, and feeling the urge to urinate but being unable to do so. While a study in 7 showed the effectiveness of dicyclomine in reducing bladder contractions in patients with neurogenic bladder, it didn't report any cases of difficulty urinating.

Other side effects

In addition to the above, dicyclomine can cause other side effects such as dizziness, headache, indigestion, and rash. These side effects occur because dicyclomine affects the body when taken. Symptoms include feeling dizzy or unsteady, a feeling of heaviness in the head, bloating, nausea, and vomiting, and red spots or bumps on the skin. These side effects typically disappear within a few days to weeks after taking dicyclomine, but if they persist, it's essential to consult a doctor.

Countermeasures for side effects

Constipation

Countermeasures for constipation include drinking plenty of fluids and eating a diet rich in fiber. If constipation doesn't improve, consult a doctor.

Dry mouth

Countermeasures for dry mouth include drinking fluids frequently. Chewing gum or sucking on candy can also be effective.

Blurred vision

Countermeasures for blurred vision include avoiding driving or performing precise tasks while taking dicyclomine. Consult a doctor if blurred vision doesn't improve.

Difficulty urinating

Countermeasures for difficulty urinating include going to the toilet frequently. Consult a doctor if difficulty urinating doesn't improve.

Other side effects

Consult a doctor if you experience side effects such as dizziness, headache, indigestion, or rash.

Comparison between studies

Common points

Multiple studies have shown that dicyclomine is effective in treating spasms in the digestive system and urinary tract. Furthermore, these studies have demonstrated that dicyclomine can be effective in improving the symptoms of these conditions.

Differences

Although several studies have reported side effects of dicyclomine, the type and frequency of side effects vary depending on the study. For example, a study in 5 reported deaths as a side effect of dicyclomine, while other studies haven't reported any deaths. This variation highlights the importance of using caution when considering dicyclomine and consulting with a doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks.

Points to note about application in real life

Dicyclomine is a medication used to treat spasms in the digestive system and urinary tract. If you're taking dicyclomine, it's essential to follow your doctor's instructions and inform them immediately if you experience any side effects.

Limitations of current research

Research on the side effects of dicyclomine is still insufficient. Further research is necessary to fully understand the long-term effects of this medication, particularly its long-term safety.

Future research directions

Future research should focus on conducting long-term follow-up studies to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the side effects of dicyclomine. Additionally, developing new treatment options that can minimize the side effects of dicyclomine is a critical research priority.

Conclusion

Dicyclomine is a medication that can be effective in treating spasms in the digestive system and urinary tract. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential side effects, which can include constipation, dry mouth, blurred vision, difficulty urinating, and others. If you are taking dicyclomine, follow your doctor's instructions carefully, and promptly report any side effects you experience. Consult with your doctor to discuss any concerns or questions you may have regarding this medication.