Buscopan

What is Buscopan?

Buscopan is a Pharmacy Only Medicine in Hong Kong widely used to relieve painful cramps and spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, biliary system, and urinary tract.

Unlike hyoscine hydrobromide, which crosses the blood-brain barrier to treat motion sickness, hyoscine butylbromide is a quaternary ammonium derivative. This chemical structure prevents it from easily entering the central nervous system, allowing it to target peripheral smooth muscles directly with fewer sedative side effects.

Generic Names:

• Hyoscine butylbromide: The standard non-proprietary name used widely in the UK, Hong Kong, and parts of Europe.
• Scopolamine butylbromide: The common generic name used primarily in the United States and international databases.

Global Brand Names:

Buscopan is available under several brand names internationally and locally.

• Buscopan (珀適靈): The primary and most recognized brand for hyoscine butylbromide in Hong Kong, generally available as 10mg tablets.
• Cospan: A common generic alternative available in local Hong Kong pharmacies.
• Spasmonin: A generic antispasmodic formulation registered for use in Hong Kong.

These names all refer to the same medication. It's important to note that while the active ingredient is the same, different countries may have different regulations and available medication formulations.

What is Buscopan used for?

Buscopan is used to relieve:

• Gastrointestinal tract spasms
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) cramps
• Abdominal pain caused by smooth muscle spasms
• Biliary colic and renal colic
• Urinary tract and bladder spasms

How do you use Buscopan?

Availability:

• Tablets

Dosage Information:

• Adults and Children over 12 years: 10mg to 20mg (1 to 2 tablets) taken 3 to 4 times daily.
• Children aged 6 to 12 years: 10mg (1 tablet) taken 3 times daily.
• Infants and Children under 6 years: Unsuitable for use without strict medical supervision.

Suitability:

• Adults: Yes.
• Children over 6: Yes, at reduced dosages.
• Elderly: Yes, with caution regarding potential urinary retention.

Who cannot take Buscopan?

Allergies and unsuitability:

• Rare, but possible allergic reactions including skin rashes or anaphylaxis.

Conditions where the drug should not be used:

• Myasthenia gravis
• Mechanical stenosis in the gastrointestinal tract
• Paralytic or obstructive ileus
• Megacolon
• Narrow-angle glaucoma
• Prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention
• Tachycardia

Side effects of Buscopan are generally mild because it has poor systemic absorption and does not easily cross into the brain. Common adverse reactions include dry mouth, reduced sweating, and a mildly elevated heart rate. In rare cases, individuals may experience skin reactions such as itching or hives.

Severe reactions are highly uncommon but can involve urinary retention, especially in elderly males with prostate issues, acute glaucoma characterized by eye pain and vision loss, or severe allergic responses. Avoid continuous daily use without investigating the underlying cause of abdominal pain, as overuse can mask severe gastrointestinal conditions.

• Do not exceed the daily dose limits to prevent severe anticholinergic side effects like a dangerously fast heart rate.
• Do not use daily for long periods without a medical diagnosis of the underlying abdominal pain.
• Avoid concomitant use with dopamine antagonists like metoclopramide, as they counteract each other's effects on gastrointestinal motility.
• Check with a doctor if taking tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, or antipsychotics, as these can increase the risk of dry mouth, urinary retention, and tachycardia.

Storage information:

• Keep in a cool, dry place below 25°C or 30°C, depending on the manufacturer's specific instructions.
• Store away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep entirely out of the reach of children.

Handling instructions:

• Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets before swallowing.

Where is Buscopan available in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Buscopan is classified as a Pharmacy Only Medicine. While no prescription is needed, it must be purchased at a registered pharmacy under the direct supervision of a registered pharmacist.

It can be legally obtained from registered dispensaries displaying the "Rx" logo, as well as the pharmacy counters within large chain drug stores such as Mannings and Watsons.