Brand Name: Anaspaz, Levsin
Generic Name: Hyoscyamine

Hyoscyamine is used to treat a variety of stomach/intestinal problems such as cramps and irritable bowel syndrome. It is also used to treat other conditions such as bladder and bowel control problems, cramping pain caused by kidney stones and gallstones, and Parkinson's disease. In addition, it is used to decrease side effects of certain medications (drugs used to treat myasthenia gravis) and insecticides.

This medication works by decreasing acid production in the stomach, slowing down the natural movements of the gut, and relaxing muscles in many organs (e.g., stomach, intestines, bladder, kidney, gallbladder). Hyoscyamine also lessens the amount of certain body fluids (e.g., saliva, sweat). This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as anticholinergics/antispasmodics

Take this medication by mouth as prescribed, usually 30-60 minutes before meals, or as directed by your doctor.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed without consulting your doctor. Adults and children 12 years and older should not take more than 1.5 milligrams in 24 hours. Children aged 2 to 12 years should not take more than 0.75 milligrams in 24 hours. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Antacids lower the absorption of hyoscyamine. If you use antacids, take them after meals and take hyoscyamine before meals; or take antacids at least 1 hour after taking hyoscyamine.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Levsin is an antispasmodic medication given to help treat various stomach, intestinal, and urinary tract disorders that involve cramps, colic, or other painful muscle contractions. Because Levsin has a drying effect, it may also be used to dry a runny nose or to dry excess secretions before anesthesia is administered.

Together with morphine or other narcotics, Levsin is prescribed for the pain of gallstones or kidney stones. For inflammation of the pancreas, Levsin may be used to help control excess secretions and reduce pain. Levsin may also be taken in Parkinson's disease to help reduce muscle rigidity and tremors and to help control drooling and excess sweating. The drug is sometimes prescribed during treatment for peptic ulcer.

Doctors also give Levsin as part of the preparation for certain diagnostic x-rays (for example, of the stomach, intestines, or kidneys).

Levsin comes in several forms, including regular tablets, tablets to be dissolved under the tongue, tablets that dissolve on the tongue (NuLev), sustained-release capsules (Levsinex Timecaps) and sustained-release tablets (Levbid), liquid, drops, and an injectable solution.

If you take Levsin for a stomach disorder, you may also need to take antacid medication. However, antacids make Levsin more difficult for the body to absorb. To minimize this problem, take Levsin before meals and the antacid after meals.

Take Levsin exactly as prescribed. Although the sublingual tablets (Levsin/SL) are designed to be dissolved under the tongue, they may also be chewed or swallowed. The regular tablets should be swallowed. Levbid extended-release tablets should not be crushed or chewed. NuLev tablets should be placed on the tongue, allowed to disintegrate, then swallowed. They can be taken with or without water.

Levsin can cause dry mouth. For temporary relief, suck on a hard candy or chew gum.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Protect NuLev tablets from moisture.