Description
Indications
Pyridostigmine is indicated for the treatment of muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis and congenital myasthenic syndrome. This medication may also be used to reverse the effects of non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, and it has potential utility in military personnel exposed to nerve gas.
Pyridostigmine is a cholinesterase inhibitor that works by reducing the breakdown of acetylcholine in the neuromuscular junction, this increases the signals between nerves and muscles and relieves symptoms of muscle weakness.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication as directed by your healthcare provider, either with or without food.
If you are using the liquid form of this medication, use a specialized measuring device or spoon to carefully measure the dose, as using a household spoon may result in an incorrect dose.
For extended-release tablets, follow your doctor’s instructions and take them once or twice daily, with at least a 6-hour interval between doses. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets, as this may cause the entire dose to be released at once, increasing the risk of adverse effects. Do not split tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist has instructed you to do so.
The dose of this medication is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. To derive maximum benefit from this medication, use it regularly and take it at the same time(s) each day. Avoid increasing your dose or taking it more frequently or for longer than prescribed, as this will not accelerate your recovery but may increase the likelihood of side effects.
Moisture may cause the tablet forms of this medication to become discolored. This does not affect the effectiveness of the medication.
If your condition fails to improve or worsens, please inform your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- upset stomach
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- drooling
- pale skin
- cold sweats
- blurred vision
- watery eyes
- increased urge to urinate
- anxiousness and feelings of panic
- muscle weakness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe itching, skin rash, or hives
- slurred speech
- confusion
- seizures
- difficulty breathing
Caution
Prior to initiating pyridostigmine, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist of any known allergies to the medication, bromides, or any other allergens. This preparation may contain inactive components that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to taking this medication, disclose your medical history, especially if you have a history of stomach/intestinal or urinary tract obstruction, pulmonary disease (such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD), kidney disease, or slow/irregular heartbeat.
Liquid preparations of this medication may contain sugar and/or alcohol. If you have diabetes, liver disease, or any other condition that requires you to limit or avoid these substances in your diet, use caution. Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the safe use of this product.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Please discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk, but it is unlikely to harm nursing infants. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Mestinon is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Mestinon tablet:
- 60mg
-
pyridostigmine tablet:
- 60mg
FAQ
How quickly does Mestinon act?
When taken by mouth, regular release Mestinon works within a few minutes to improve muscle weakness. Its effects last for 3-4 hours so it must be taken repeatedly throughout the day.
Does Mestinon affect sleep?
Mestinon did not improve pain or fatigue but did reduce anxiety and improved restorative sleep.
Resources
- https://myasthenia.org/About-Us/Blog/pyridostigmine-mestinon-1#:~:text=When%20taken%20by%20mouth%2C%20regular,and%20longer%20duration%20of%20action
- https://www.healthrising.org/blog/2016/06/17/mestinon-chronic-fatigue-vagus-nerve-stimulation-exercise/#:~:text=Mestinon%20did%20not%20improve%20pain,of%20autonomic%20nervous%20system%20functioning
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682229.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3740/mestinon-oral/details
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/pyridostigmine
- https://www.drugs.com/mestinon.html