Levsin

What is Levsin?

Levsin is an anticholinergic agent which treats various conditions of the stomach, intestines, bladder and pancreas.

What is Levsin used for?

Levsin is used to treat various conditions: irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, symptoms of colic, cramps, stomach or bowel problems, inflammation of pancreas which leads to increased pancreatic secretion, cystitis, spastic bladder (bladder problems). It is also used to facilitate certain surgeries or medical procedures.

How does Levsin work?

Levsin works by reducing the secretion of acid and other fluids in the stomach and by decreasing stomach and intestinal movements.

How to use Levsin

Levsin should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

The tablets are taken by mouth, generally half an hour to 1 hour prior to meals or as directed by the doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor.

Levsin is also given as an injection, preferably by a health care professional. Do not take the injection if the vial is cracked or the liquid inside is discolored or has particles in it.

Do not increase or stop the dose without consultation with your doctor.

Levsin warnings and precautions

You should always inform your doctor beforehand if you are allergic to any ingredient of Levsin. Patients having conditions such as bowel mobility problems, irritation in or narrowing of esophagus, toxic megacolon, ulcerative colitis, blockage in stomach, bladder or intestines; myasthenia gravis, glaucoma or heart problems caused due to bleeding, are also advised against taking Levsin.

Consult your doctor if you have any allergies or any of the following conditions: coronary heart disease, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, high blood pressure, prostate problems, stomach or intestinal problems, nerve problems, kidney problems, esophagus problems, hiatal hernia, overactive thyroid, or glaucoma. Also, tell your doctor if you are in poor health (you have diarrhea, fever etc.). In such cases there may be an alteration in your dosage.

Levsin may cause dizziness and drowsiness. So, avoid activities such as driving or operating machinery while under treatment with this drug.

Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Levsin as this may aggravate drowsiness or dizziness.

Levsin should be used with caution in children and the elderly as they may be more sensitive to the side-effects of the drug.

Pregnant and lactating mothers should discuss the possible risks and benefits of using Levsin with their doctor.

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

If you have missed a Levsin dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

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

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

Levsin interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Levsin include: MAO inhibitors, antihistamines, other anticholinergics, tricyclic antidepressants, haloperidol, amantadine, phenothiazines, potassium chloride, ketoconazoles, narcotic pain medicines, metoclopramide etc.

Other drugs may also interact with Levsin. Hence it is important to tell your doctor about all the prescription, non-prescription, herbal drugs and vitamin-mineral supplements that you are taking.

Do not prescribe to a medicine without consultation with your doctor. 

Levsin side effects

Side effects from Levsin include allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of your face, tongue, lips, or throat or breathing difficulty. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Consult your doctor if you notice any of the following serious side-effects: irregular or fast heartbeats, diarrhea, vision problems, speech problems, behavioral changes, mood changes, hallucinations, agitation, disorientation, loss of coordination, confusion, memory loss, difficulty in urination, decreased sexual ability, persistent sleep problems, or loss of taste.

Constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, bloated feeling, nervousness, enlarged pupils, blurred vision, decreased sweating and excitability are some common and less serious side effects of Levsin.