About pyridostigmine bromide
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
Used for
- Reversal of nondepolarizing muscle relaxants after surgery
- Treatment of myasthenia gravis when oral treatment is unsuitable
Usual adult dose
For reversal after surgery: 0.1–0.25 mg/kg by slow intravenous injection, with an antimuscarinic medicine. Myasthenia dosing varies.
Usual dose in children
For reversal after surgery: 0.1–0.25 mg/kg by slow intravenous injection, with an antimuscarinic medicine. Myasthenia dosing varies.
Common side effects
- Abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, increased saliva
- Sweating and increased bronchial secretions
- Slow heartbeat or low blood pressure
- Muscle cramps, twitching, or weakness
Important warnings
- Can cause dangerous breathing or heart problems, especially with overdose.
- Avoid or use caution with asthma, slow heartbeat, or intestinal or urinary blockage.
- Too much can worsen weakness and breathing; symptoms may resemble worsening myasthenia.
- Use with an antimuscarinic medicine when reversing muscle relaxants.
Pregnancy
Use only when needed; evidence is limited, and benefits and risks require clinical assessment.
Breastfeeding
Use with caution; limited information is available, and infant effects are uncertain.
Interactions
- Other cholinergic medicines can increase adverse effects.
- Antimuscarinic medicines can oppose its effects.
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics and some anesthetics may worsen muscle weakness.
- Beta blockers may increase slow-heartbeat risk.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.