Ubretid

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How does it work?

Distigmine bromide belongs to a group of medicines called anticholinesterases. It works by preventing the breakdown of a substance called acetylcholine, which is found naturally in the body. Acetylcholine stimulates a type of receptor called a muscarinic receptor. These are found throughout the body and when stimulated, have a range of different effects, depending on their site in the body. Stimulation of the muscarinic receptors in muscle leads to contraction of the muscle. Preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine means that there is more available to stimulate receptors. Distigmine therefore improves contraction of the muscle. Distigmine is used to treat myaesthenia gravis, where the number of muscarinic receptors is reduced. This leads to muscle weakness. Distigmine increases the amount of acetylcholine that is available to stimulate the remaining receptors, therefore enhancing muscle contraction. Normal muscle action is preserved even though there are fewer receptors. In addition, distigmine is used in conditions where there is difficulty in emptying the bladder, such as following surgery. In these cases, distigmine increases the amount of acetylcholine acting on the receptors in the muscle of the bladder wall. This stimulates contraction of the bladder and relieves urine retention. It is also used in conditions where the muscle in the intestine wall has become paralysed (paralytic ileus), such as following surgery. This prevents the normal passage of food through the gut. Distigmine works by increasing the amount of acetylcholine acting on receptors in the muscle of the gut wall, which stimulates normal contraction of the gut.

What is it used for?

- A loss in the ability of the gut to contract (ileus or intestinal atony) following surgery
- Abnormal muscle weakness
- Assisting bladder emptying where this is a problem due to disorders of the bladder nerve supply (neurogenic bladder)
- Difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention) following surgery

Warning!

- Take 30 minutes before breakfast

Use with caution in