SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, dry eyes, constipation, or increased heartbeat may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To relieve dry mouth, suck on hard candy or ice chips, chew gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
To prevent constipation, maintain a diet adequate in fiber, and drink plenty of water. If you become constipated while using this drug, consult your pharmacist for help in selecting a laxative (e.g., stimulant-type with stool softener).
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: fast/irregular heartbeat, weakness, headache, mental/mood changes (e.g., nervousness, confusion), loss of taste, nausea, vomiting, decreased ability to sweat, reduced tolerance of heat/strenuous exercise, decreased ability to start urination, decreased sexual ability/interest.
For more details about heat tolerance, see Precautions section.
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 glycopyrrolate, 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 caused by 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 severe form of an intestinal disease (ulcerative colitis), a certain muscle disease (myasthenia gravis).
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: previous heatstroke, liver problems, kidney problems, 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.
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 overheating (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 urinary effects.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. This medication may reduce breast milk production. If you and your doctor decide for you to use this medication while breast-feeding, contact your doctor immediately if you notice a decreased amount of breast milk.