GENERIC NAME: HYOSCYAMINE - SUBLINGUAL (hi-oh-SYE-uh-meen)

BRAND NAME(S): A-Spas-S/L, Hyosol/SL, Levsin/SL

USES: Hyoscyamine is used to treat a variety of stomach and intestinal tract disorders such as peptic ulcers, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, colitis, or pancreatitis. It is also used to control bed-wetting and frequent urination, runny nose, symptoms of Parkinson's disease, and poisonings due to certain plants and insecticides.

HOW TO USE: This medication may be taken orally, chewed or placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve. It may be taken with or without meals. Take this exactly as prescribed by your doctor. 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, reduced sweating or thirst. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: confusion, tremors, irregular pulse, rapid 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: heart problems, glaucoma, prostate or urinary problems, contact lens wear, stomach/abdominal/intestinal problems, drug allergies. Because this medication may cause drowsiness, use caution when driving or performing tasks requiring alertness. This medication reduces sweating and may lead to heatstroke 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 drying of the eyes. Elderly patients should use this medication with caution because they may be more sensitive to its effects. Children should use this medication with caution because they may be more sensitive to its effects. Hyoscyamine should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug may be excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.