SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, dry eyes, tiredness, and trouble sleeping may occur. Less common side effects may also include lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, headache, loss of appetite, temporary loss of the ability to taste, constipation, abdominal bloating/pain, problems sleeping, unusually fast heartbeat, and stuffy nose. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. To relieve dry eyes, consult your pharmacist for an appropriate eye lubricant.
To prevent constipation, maintain a diet adequate in fiber, and drink plenty of water. If you become constipated while using this drug, tell your doctor immediately.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: decreased sweating, sudden fast/irregular heartbeat, speaking problems, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, unusual behavior, aggressive behavior, excitability, nervousness), problems starting the flow of urine, shortness of breath, decreased sexual ability, diarrhea if you have a colostomy or ileostomy.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you may call Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking dicyclomine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: glaucoma, urine blockage due to narrowing of the urination tube (urethra), enlarged prostate, blockage or narrowing in the stomach/intestines, severe slowing or stoppage of the intestines (e.g., intestinal atony, paralytic ileus), any condition that causes immobility (being bedridden), severe bleeding, a certain severe intestinal disease (severe ulcerative colitis), a certain muscle disease (myasthenia gravis), severe and persistent heartburn, severe bleeding with fainting.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver problems, kidney problems, enlarged prostate, ulcerative colitis, heart disease (e.g., angina, previous heart attack, chronic heart failure, heart rhythm problems), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), high blood pressure, nerve problems that cause slowing of the intestines (autonomic neuropathy), hiatal hernia with heartburn, drug/alcohol abuse, previous heatstroke, sleep apnea.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution while driving, using machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
This drug may make you sweat less, causing you to be more likely to develop a severe condition caused by becoming overheated (heatstroke). Use caution in hot temperatures and during strenuous exercise. Drink plenty of fluids, and dress lightly while in hot weather or when exercising. Check carefully for signs of decreased sweating. If this occurs, stop exercising and promptly seek cooler shelter. Seek immediate medical attention if your body temperature is above normal or if you have mental/mood changes, headache, or dizziness.
Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, especially drowsiness, confusion, and urination problems.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Breast milk production may also be decreased by this medication. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.