What are the side effects?
     The most serious side effects from Donnatal are confusion, blurred vision, difficulty in urination, and decreased sweating. If you experience these symptoms call your doctor immediately. Take care to stay hydrated, particularly in hot weather.

     Other common side effects include headache, nausea, constipation, rash, and vomiting. See the Donnatal Side Effects page for a complete list.

What medications can Donnatal interact with?
     Donnatal can interact with several drugs. Tell the prescribing physician about all drugs and nutritional supplements you are taking, especially those from the following list which may interact with Donnatal.

• Antacids
• Antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Antispasmodics
• Barbiturates
• Birth Control Pills
• Blood-thinning drugs (Coumadin)
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Diarrhea medications containing Kaolin or attapulgite
• Digitalis (Lanoxin)
• Metoclopramide (Reglan)
• Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors
• Narcotics
• Potassium chloride
• Prednisone
• Sedatives
• Thiazide diuretics

Are there any food interactions?
     Consuming alcohol while taking Donnatal could have a sedative effect and cause tiredness or sleepiness. Take care to avoid alcohol from unexpected sources, such as over the counter cough suppressants or cold products (Nyquil, for example).

Is Donnatal safe during pregnancy?
     The FDA has classified Donnatal as a type C drug. The belladonna portion of Donnatal has not been shown to cause any problems for pregnant women. However, the barbiturate portion does increase the risk of birth defects and bleeding in newborns. Donnatal does pass into breast milk.

     Donnatal should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Notify the prescribing doctor if you become pregnant while taking Donnatal. The potential for serious side effects in an infant should be weighed against the usefulness of the medication to the mother.

Can Donnatal cause any sexual side effects?
     Donnatal can cause impotence in men, and supression of breast milk in nursing mothers. It may also decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills.

Previous page > Dosing and prescribing information > Page 1, 2