Bentyl

Before taking this medicine

Do not take dicyclomine if you are breastfeeding or have glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, a blockage of the urinary tract or digestive tract, severe ulcerative colitis, reflux esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus caused by reflux), or an unstable heart or circulation condition during acute bleeding. It must not be given to infants younger than 6 months. Use requires caution in people with cardiovascular conditions, ulcerative colitis, an enlarged prostate, or impaired liver or kidney function. It may worsen cardiovascular conditions, cause difficulty passing urine, or contribute to serious bowel complications. People with Salmonella dysentery are at risk of toxic megacolon, a serious enlargement of the colon. Diarrhea can be an early sign of a partial bowel blockage, particularly in people with an ileostomy or colostomy; treatment in this situation may be dangerous or fatal. Dicyclomine can reduce sweating and cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Psychosis and delirium have been reported, particularly in older people and people with mental illness who are sensitive to anticholinergic medicines. Older adults may be more susceptible to adverse effects. During pregnancy, use only if clearly needed. Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established.