Dicetel (Pinaverium)

What is Dicetel?

Dicetel (pinaverium bromide) is an oral drug which works as a gastrointestinal calcium antagonist.

What is Dicetel used for?

Dicetel is used to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome which include bowel disturbances, abdominal pain, or intestinal discomfort. It is also used in the treatment of certain gallbladder disorders associated with bile secretion.

How does Dicetel work?

The main component of Dicetel, Pinaverium, is a calcium channel blocker. It blocks calcium channels, especially in the smooth muscle cells of the intestinal wall and stops calcium influx. It is also believed that this drug prevents motor colonic response to pharmacological stimulation or food and relaxes biliary and gastrointestinal tracts.

How to use Dicetel

Dicetel should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. The dosage and length of treatment depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Dicetel is usually taken orally thrice a day with meals. The tablet should be swallowed with a glass full of water. The dose may be gradually increased by your doctor if your condition fails to improve with a low dose. 

The drug should not be taken while in a lying position or just before bedtime.

The drug should be taken regularly, preferably at evenly spaced intervals in order to get the best results.

Do not increase or stop your dose without consultation with your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse contact your doctor immediately.

Dicetel warnings and precautions

Dicetel is not administered to patients who are allergic to any of its ingredients. Patients who experience motility dysfunction caused by some organic disease should not take this medicine to relieve symptoms.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you are allergic to any other drug. Dicetel may cause throat irritation if it comes in contact with esophageal mucus. Hence it is important to take the medicine with a glass of water during meals.

Effects of Dicetel on a fetus or a nursing baby are not known for certain. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Dicetel dose?

If you have missed a Dicetel dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Dicetel overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Dicetel, consult your doctor.

Dicetel interactions

Not many drugs are known to interact with Dicetel. However, some drugs may reduce efficacy of Dicetel. Hence it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines/vitamin-mineral supplements that you are taking, before taking Dicetel.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Dicetel side effects

Side effects from Dicetel are extremely rare. However, there can be allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Also, contact your doctor if you notice any of the following side effects: vertigo, drowsiness, dryness of mouth, persistent headaches or severe diarrhea.

Constipation, mild diarrhea, flatulence, mild epigastric pain, bloating, heartburn, nausea, distention are some common and less serious side effects of Dicetel.