Mepenzolate (patient information)

Mepenzolate slows the activity of the stomach and intestinal tract, thus relieving cramping and reducing acid secretion. It is used in the treatment of peptic ulcers.

HOW TO USE ?
Mepenzolate is usually taken 3 to 4 times daily with meals and at bedtime, or take as directed by your doctor. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the dose or take it more frequently without consulting your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while using this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

SIDE EFFECTS
This medication may cause flushing of the face, problems sleeping, headache, blurred vision, drowsiness, increased sensitivity to light, constipation, dry mouth, decreased sweating or thirst. If any of these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: confusion, tremors, rapid or irregular heartbeat, difficulty urinating. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, nervous system disorders, all stomach/intestinal problems, glaucoma, enlarged prostate, allergies. Because this medication may cause drowsiness, use caution when driving or performing tasks requiring alertness. This medication can reduce sweating which can lead to heat stroke in hot weather. Use caution engaging in strenuous activity in hot weather. Contact lens wearers may need to use appropriate lubricating solutions if this medication causes dry eyes. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug and should use this medication cautiously. Children may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug and should use this medication cautiously. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you use, especially of: amantadine, quinidine, disopyramide, procainamide, digoxin, ketoconazole, antacids, potassium supplements, phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine, promethazine), medications for Parkinson's disease, antidepressants, allergy medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include unusually dry mouth; excessive thirst; nausea; vomiting; difficulty breathing; blurred vision; dilated pupils; flushed, hot, dry skin; muscle weakness; unusual dizziness or drowsiness; restlessness; disorientation; and seizures.

MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight unless otherwise directed. Do not store in the bathroom

MEDICAL ALERT
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).