1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Levsin (Hyoscyamine [hi OS ah meen]) Frequently Asked Questions
Part 1: Prescribing and dosing information.
 More of this Feature
• Part 2: Side Effects and Pregnancy
 
 Related Resources
• Levsin (hyoscyamine)
• Anticholinergics (an-tee-koh-lih-NURJ-iks)
 
 From Other Guides
•  Barbiturates - Alcoholism
 
 Elsewhere on the Web
• Pharmacists' Answers to "Frequently Asked Questions" - Levsin
• Levsin - Health Square
• Belladonna - Botanical.com
 

Generic name: Hyoscyamine
Other brand name: Anaspaz

What is Levsin?
     Levsin is classified as an anticholinergic-sedative and is acombination of two drugs: belladonna alkaloids and barbiturates. It is used to relax the muscles in the bladder and intestines as well as reduce stomach acid.

How is Levsin taken?
     Levsin should be taken anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes before eating a meal. It should never be taken at the same time as antacids, as antacids can decrease the absorption of Levsin.

Why is Levsin prescribed?
     Levsin is used in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), diverticulosis, and bladder spasms.

What do I do if I miss a dose?
     If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose should be taken soon, just take that dose. Don't double up, or take more than one dose at a time.

Who should not take Levsin?
     Before taking Levsin, tell your doctor if you have, or have ever had:

  • Asthma, emphysema, or chronic lung disease
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Down's syndrome
  • Glaucoma
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Intestinal blockage
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Prostate enlargement (BPH)
  • Severe ulcerative colitis where bowel movements have stopped
Next page > Side Effects, Food Interactions, and Pregnancy > Page 1, 2

Subscribe to the Newsletter
Name
Email

Explore Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

More from About.com

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.