Patient Information on Glycopyrrolate for Biliary Dyskinesia

Patients may be prescribed glycopyrrolate for biliary dyskinesia. Biliary dyskinesia is a condition in which a patient experiences gallbladder disease without having any gallstones present. This is a prescription medication that is also sold under the brand name Robinul.

This medication is most often used to treat stomach ulcers. When used to treat stomach ulcers, it is often used in combination with another medication. This anticholinergic medication can be prescribed to patients with biliary dyskinesia to help slow the intestines and decrease stomach acid. In turn, this can often help alleviate stomach/abdominal pain and stomach cramping.

This medication is administered by mouth. Most patients will take it two to three times a day. This medication should be taken at the same time every day.

Patients with certain medical conditions may not be able to take this medication. Taking this medication with certain medical conditions may lead to dangerous adverse effects. These medical conditions include glaucoma, certain muscle diseases, enlarged prostate-related urine blockage, a severe intestinal disease, narrowing or blockage of the intestines/stomach, severe bleeding, severe stoppage or slowing of intestines, being immobile, previous heatstroke, hiatal hernia, liver problems, autonomic neuropathy, kidney problems, high blood pressure, ulcerative colitis, overactive thyroid, and heart disease.

Patients taking glycopyrrolate for biliary dyskinesia may experience side effects. Unless the common side effects persist or worsen the patient will not have to contact their physician, but if a patient experiences the serious side effects they should contact their physician immediately or seek emergency medical assistance. The common side effects of this medication include increased heartbeat, drowsiness, constipation, blurred vision, dry eyes, and dry mouth. The serious side effects include decreased interest in sex or sexual ability, fast/irregular heartbeat, difficulty starting urination, weakness, reduced heat tolerance, headache, reduced sweating ability, mood/mental changes, vomiting, nausea, loss of taste. In rare cases, an allergic reaction may occur and the signs are swelling, difficulty breathing, rash, itching, and severe dizziness. An allergic reaction is a medical emergency.

Antacid medications will decrease the absorption of this medication so patients should not take this medication less than two hours after an antacid or less than sixty minutes before an antacid. Certain drugs may interact with this medication. Such drugs include potassium, some mood/mental drugs, some antihistamines, and some antidepressants. Certain drugs may increase drowsiness when taking with this drug such as narcotic pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants, anxiety medications, and sleep medications.

Patients who have allergies should notify their doctor of their allergies before starting this medication. Patients should avoid driving and dangerous activities because this drug can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Patients should avoid drinking alcohol. Patients may become more sensitive to heat and sweat less. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should only use this drug if closely supervised by their doctor.

RxList. (2009). Glycopyrrolate. Retrieved on October 23, 2009 from Website: http://www.rxlist.com/robinul-drug.htm