About pyridostigmine bromide
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
Used for
- Treats myasthenia gravis symptoms
- Reverses effects of certain muscle-relaxing medicines
Usual adult dose
Myasthenia gravis: often 30–60 mg every 3–4 hours while awake; dosing varies.
Usual dose in children
Myasthenia gravis: doses are weight-based and individualized by a specialist.
Common side effects
- Abdominal cramps, nausea, or diarrhea
- Increased saliva and sweating
- Muscle cramps or twitching
- Slow heartbeat or weakness
Important warnings
- Can cause severe breathing or swallowing problems if the dose is unsuitable.
- Use caution with asthma, slow heartbeat, or bowel or urinary blockage.
- Overdose can cause worsening weakness and a potentially life-threatening cholinergic crisis.
- Do not stop long-term treatment suddenly without medical guidance.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically needed; discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; monitor the infant for unusual effects.
Interactions
- Other medicines that slow heart rate may increase heartbeat-related effects.
- Anticholinergic medicines can reduce pyridostigmine’s effects.
- Some antibiotics, including aminoglycosides, may worsen muscle weakness.
- Muscle-relaxing medicines used in surgery may interact.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.