Drotaverine

An article about the antispasmodic drug Drotaverine

Drotaverine

Chemical structure of Drotaverine

Drotaverine is a medication used to relieve smooth muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, biliary tract, and urinary tract. It is commonly used in the treatment of abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome, and dysmenorrhea.

Pharmacology

Drotaverine is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, which leads to an increase in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. This results in the relaxation of smooth muscles. Unlike other antispasmodics, drotaverine does not have anticholinergic effects, making it suitable for patients who cannot tolerate such effects.

Mechanism of Action

Drotaverine works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase IV, which is responsible for the breakdown of cAMP. The increase in cAMP levels leads to the relaxation of smooth muscle fibers, thereby alleviating spasms.

Uses

Drotaverine is primarily used to treat conditions associated with smooth muscle spasms. These include:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Biliary colic
• Renal colic
• Dysmenorrhea
• Gastrointestinal colic

Side Effects

Common side effects of drotaverine include:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Hypotension

Contraindications

Drotaverine should not be used in patients with:

• Severe liver failure
• Severe kidney failure
• Hypersensitivity to drotaverine

Administration

Drotaverine is available in various forms, including oral tablets, injectable solutions, and syrups. The dosage and administration depend on the condition being treated and the patient's response to the medication.

Related pages

• Antispasmodic
• Phosphodiesterase inhibitor
• Smooth muscle