Why is this medication prescribed?

Cystospaz, also known as hyoscyamine sulfate, is prescribed primarily for its antispasmodic effects on the bladder and urinary tract. It is used to alleviate symptoms associated with bladder irritation, such as urgency, frequency, and discomfort. The medication works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the bladder and urinary tract, thereby reducing spasms and related symptoms.

Specific conditions for which Cystospaz may be prescribed include:

• Interstitial Cystitis (IC): A chronic condition characterized by bladder pain, urinary urgency, and frequency.
• Bladder Spasms: Uncontrolled contractions of the bladder muscles causing pain and urgency.
• Overactive Bladder (OAB): A condition characterized by a frequent and sudden urge to urinate.
• Neurogenic Bladder: Dysfunction of the bladder due to nerve damage, often seen in conditions like spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis.
• Urinary Incontinence: Involuntary leakage of urine, often associated with bladder muscle spasms.

How should this medicine be used?

How to use Cystospaz:

• Dosage: The dosage of Cystospaz can vary depending on individual circumstances and the severity of symptoms. It is typically taken orally, usually with or without food.
• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions regarding dosage and usage.
• Swallow Whole: Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets unless instructed otherwise.
• Regular Schedule: Take Cystospaz regularly at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level in your bloodstream.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Cystospaz, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may need to monitor your response to Cystospaz and adjust your dosage if necessary.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Duration: Continue taking Cystospaz for the prescribed duration, even if you start feeling better. Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor.
• Storage: Store Cystospaz at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

It’s important to note that Cystospaz should only be used as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about its use, always consult with your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

• Gastrointestinal Disorders: In some cases, hyoscyamine sulfate may be used to treat certain gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It helps alleviate symptoms like abdominal cramps and spasms.
• Parkinson’s Disease: It can sometimes be prescribed to manage tremors and muscle stiffness associated with Parkinson’s disease, although this is less common.
• Motion Sickness: Hyoscyamine may also be used to reduce nausea and vomiting related to motion sickness.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergies: Before taking Cystospaz, inform your doctor if you are allergic to hyoscyamine sulfate or any other medications.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially:
  • Glaucoma
  • Enlarged prostate (BPH)
  • Kidney or liver disease
  • Heart conditions
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Myasthenia gravis
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of taking Cystospaz with your doctor. It may not be recommended during these times unless absolutely necessary.
• Interactions: Cystospaz can interact with other medications, including:
  • Other anticholinergic drugs
  • Antihistamines
  • Antidepressants
  • Antipsychotics
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Certain antibiotics

  Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

• Driving and Operating Machinery: Cystospaz may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Alcohol and Other Substances: Avoid alcohol while taking Cystospaz, as it can increase dizziness and drowsiness. Limit caffeine intake as well, as it may exacerbate certain side effects.
• Dosing Schedule: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and timing. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or suddenly stop taking Cystospaz without consulting your doctor.
• Side Effects Monitoring: Be aware of potential side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, difficulty urinating, and changes in heart rate. Contact your doctor if these symptoms become severe or persistent.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding the use of Cystospaz, including its potential benefits and risks based on your specific health needs and medical history.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with Cystospaz. However, maintaining a healthy diet and adequate hydration can complement the management of bladder and urinary symptoms. If you have any concerns or specific dietary needs, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Cystospaz, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cystospaz (hyoscyamine sulfate) may cause several side effects, which can vary in severity from mild to more serious. It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects and to promptly notify your healthcare provider if you experience any of them. Common side effects of Cystospaz include:

• Dry mouth: This is a frequent side effect due to the anticholinergic properties of hyoscyamine. Drinking water or chewing sugarless gum can help alleviate dry mouth.
• Blurred vision: Hyoscyamine can affect vision by causing dilation of the pupils. This effect is usually temporary and subsides as the medication wears off.
• Dizziness or drowsiness: These side effects may impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving. It’s advisable to avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Cystospaz affects you.
• Constipation: Hyoscyamine can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation. Increasing fiber intake, fluids, and physical activity can help alleviate this symptom.
• Difficulty urinating: In some cases, hyoscyamine can cause difficulty in passing urine, particularly in individuals with an enlarged prostate or other urinary tract issues.
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia): Hyoscyamine can affect heart rate, causing it to increase temporarily. This effect is usually mild and transient.
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia): Some individuals may experience increased sensitivity to light while taking hyoscyamine.
• Nausea or stomach upset: These gastrointestinal symptoms can occur, though they are less common.

Less commonly, more serious side effects may include:

• Severe allergic reactions (rare): Signs may include rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Severe dizziness or fainting: These symptoms may indicate a more serious reaction to the medication.

If you experience any severe side effects or any persistent symptoms that concern you while taking Cystospaz, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider can assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action, which may include adjusting your dosage or discontinuing the medication if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Keep Cystospaz tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Make sure the medication is stored securely out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Cystospaz tablets according to local guidelines or medication take-back programs. Do not flush them down the toilet unless instructed to do so. Check with your pharmacist or healthcare provider for the proper disposal method in your area.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose of Cystospaz can lead to serious symptoms such as severe dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, rapid heart rate, flushing, fever, and possibly coma. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the US).
• Emergency Actions: If someone collapses or has difficulty breathing after taking Cystospaz, call emergency services right away. Provide as much information as possible about the medication and the symptoms observed.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Take Cystospaz exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not alter your dosage or stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your condition and response to Cystospaz. Be sure to attend all scheduled appointments.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Cystospaz, as it can enhance dizziness and drowsiness.
• Driving and Machinery: Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how Cystospaz affects you, as it can cause dizziness and blurred vision.
• Medical Alert: Inform healthcare providers (including dentists and pharmacists) about all medications you are taking, including Cystospaz. This helps prevent potential interactions with other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The use of Cystospaz during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered and monitored by your healthcare provider.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Always keep Cystospaz and any medications out of the reach of children and pets. If you have any questions or concerns about Cystospaz or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.