Mestinon (Pyridostigmine)

What is Mestinon?

Mestinon is an orally active cholinesterase inhibitor.

What is Mestinon used for?

Mestinon is used to improve muscle strength in patients with a certain muscle disease called myasthenia gravis. The medication is also given to military personnel who have been exposed to nerve gas.

How does Mestinon work?

Mestinon works by preventing the breakdown of a certain natural substance, called acetylcholine, in the body.  This substance is needed for normal muscle function.

How to use Mestinon

Use Mestinon in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Read the instruction leaflet very carefully before taking the drug. Do not take the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed.

The medicine may be taken with or without food. You may prefer to take it with food or full glass of water or milk in order to prevent upset stomach.

The extended release tablets are usually taken 1 – 2 times daily. The pill should be swallowed as whole rather than the tablet being crushed, broken or chewed.  It is recommended that you take the medicine at evenly spaced intervals.

There should be at least 6 hours gap in between the doses, taking medicine with milk or dairy products can decrease the side effects. The liquid form of pyridostigmine should be measured with a special measuring cup or spoon in order to get correct dosage.

Mestinon warnings and precautions

Do not take Mestinon if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. This product may contain anticholinesterase medications e.g. neostigmine or bromides and other inactive ingredients which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Before using Mestinon, share your medical history with your doctor, especially if it consists of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, kidney disease, slow or irregular heartbeats. The liquid form of the medication contains sugar and therefore should be avoided by diabetics.

Pregnant and lactating women should not take this medication, unless prescribed by a registered medical practitioner.

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

If you have missed a Mestinon dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine. Do not double the dose.

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

If you have taken an overdose of Mestinon, consult your doctor right away.

Mestinon interactions

Some drugs are known to interact with Mestinon when used in tandem with it. A list of such drugs includes aminoglycoside antibiotics, antiarrhythmic medications, anticholinesterase eye medications, beta blockers, mefloquine, narcotic pain medications, etc.

Therefore, it is better to inform your doctor about all the prescription and non prescription dosages that you are on, before taking Mestinon, in order to avert any interference with the treatment.

Do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Mestinon side effects

Side effects from Mestinon includes hives, swelling of faces lips, tongue or throat, difficulty in breathing, extreme muscle weakness, severe vomiting or diarrhea, muscle cramps or twitching, and muscle problems. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking Mestinon dose, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Sweating or urinating more than usual, warmth or tingly feeling, drooling, watery eyes, mild nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain, muscle or joint pain, mild itching or skin rash are less serious side effects of Mestinon.