Dicycloverine

Dicyclomine, also known as dicycloverine, is an anticholinergic that blocks muscarinic receptors. Dicycloverine was first synthesized in the United States circa 1947.

Clinical uses
Dicyclomine is used to treat intestinal hypermotility, the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) (also known as spastic colon). It relieves muscle spasms and cramping in the gastrointestinal tract by blocking the activity of acetylcholine on cholinergic (or muscarinic) receptors on the surface of muscle cells. It is a smooth muscle relaxant.

In America, it is sold under the trade names: Byclomine, Bentyl, Dibent, Di-Spaz, Dilomine.

It is present in antibacterial burn cream (trade name Ambix) in combination with phenol.

Another clinical use for dicycloverine has been as an active placebo in some studies involving various aspects of the use of opioids such as morphine, pethidine, diacetylmorphine, codeine &c.

In the UK it is sold under the trade names: Merbentyl (containing 10 mg dicycloverine) and Merbentyl 20 (containing 20 mg dicycloverine).

It is also sold in the UK as part of a multi-ingredient preparation under the trade name Kolanticon (Peckforton Pharmaceuticals), which in addition to dicycloverine, contains an antiflatulent (simethicone) and two antacids (aluminium hydroxide and magnesium oxide).

It is sold under the trade names Bentylol (Hoechst Marion Roussel), Formulex (ICN), and Lomine (Riva) in Canada. it is sold under the trade names spasmo proxyvon and spasmo plus in India

Side effects
Dicyclomine can cause a range of anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth, nausea and at higher doses, deliriant effects. Brief euphoria and an aphrodisiac effect are also known to occur in some cases. Recreational use of this drug has been reported in Brazil, as well as in Egypt, Iran, Russia, Ukraine and India.

Breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug. Consult a doctor or pharmacist for clarification. Dicyclomine's effects may be intensified with alcohol. Users should use care when operating vehicles and/or dangerous machines.