Prescription Required
Description
What is Mestinon (Pyridostigmine) prescribed for?
Myasthenia gravis is a chronic condition that causes your muscles to tire and weaken. A good example is if you are having a meal, you may notice that your jaw muscles have become tired and weak, and you are now somehow unable to chew your food. You may rest after this, and regain your strength.
The waxing and waning of the weakness in muscles is a hallmark of this disease.
This medication is used for patients that suffer from a myasthenia gravis. By taking this medicine, it will help you improve the muscle strength, which you may feel you have lost. Overall, this medication performs by preventing a breakdown of a natural substance known as acetylcholine within the body. It is this acetylcholine that is needed for any normal muscle functions.
Directions
This medication is to be taken by mouth, with or without food. Or as directed to you by your doctor. Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment.
Use this medication on a regular basis to gain the most benefit, and do not increase your dose or use this medication for longer then what has been directed. Your condition will not improve at a faster rate, and you run the risk of side effects.
Speak with your doctor if your condition worsens, or persists.
Cautions
Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Pyridostigmine; or to any other medications or allergies in general.
Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform you doctor of you Medical history. Especially of; stomach/intestinal blockage, urinary blockage, lung disease (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD), kidney disease, slow/irregular heartbeat.
Liquid products may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, liver disease, or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.
Side Effects
Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, increased saliva/sweating, runny nose, decreased pupil size, or increased urination may occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: new or increased muscle cramps/weakness/twitching, slow heartbeat, dizziness.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
FAQs
What is Mestinon?
Mestinon is a medication which comes in the form of a tablet; it is available only with a valid prescription and can be purchased in a single strength of 60mg at My Drug Center. Mestinon is available as both the brand and a generic alternative (pyridostigmine).
What is pyridostigmine?
Pyridostigmine is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor which gives medications, such as Mestinon, therapeutic effects and benefits. In the form of Mestinon, pyridostigmine is taken orally by mouth and excreted through the kidneys with a short half-life of 3-4 hours.
What is Mestinon used for?
Mestinon is used for the treatment of myasthenia gravis; a long term condition which affects skeletal muscle in the body, most commonly in the eyes, face, and the muscles used for swallowing. This condition may result in double vision, drooping eyelids, and may cause trouble talking and/or walking.
How does Mestinon work?
Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disease caused when certain antibodies (called acetylcholinesterase) breakdown acetylcholine receptors which prevent the nerve impulses from triggering muscle contractions, resulting in the weakened skeletal muscles that the condition is characterized by. To help with the treatment of myasthenia gravis; pyridostigmine (Mestinon) prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine receptors cause by the acetylcholinesterase which increases the amount of acetylcholine in the body and improves muscle strength.
How long does it take for Mestinon to work?
The exact amount of time it will take for Mestinon to work will vary between each individual as there are many factors which determine the answer. However, this medication generally begins to take effect within 30-40 minutes and can last up to 3-6 hours.
How much Mestinon should I take?
Only your doctor will be able to determine your specific dose; do not take more or less of a dose than directed by your doctor. The average adult typically takes about 10 tablets (60mg) per day. If your condition is more on the mild side, you may only need to take 1-6 tablets per day; if your condition is more on the severe side, you may need to take up to 25 tablets per day. This is why it is important to have your dose determined by your doctor.
How long does Mestinon stay in your system?
With a half-life ranging between 3-4 hours, you can expect the medication to clear out of the system after up to about 20 hours, which can be converted to just less than 1 full day. Most medications will remain in the system for 5 half-lives.
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