Generic name: pyridostigmine [ py-rid-o-STIG-meen ]
Brand names: Mestinon, Mestinon Timespan, Regonol
Dosage forms: oral syrup (60 mg/5 mL); oral tablet (60 mg); oral tablet, extended release (180 mg)
Drug class:Cholinergic muscle stimulants
What is pyridostigmine?
Pyridostigmine affects chemicals in the body that are involved in the communication between nerve impulses and muscle movement.
Pyridostigmine is used to treat the symptoms of myasthenia gravis. It is also used in military personnel who have been exposed to nerve gas.
Pyridostigmine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use pyridostigmine if you you have a bladder or bowel obstruction.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use pyridostigmine if you are allergic to it, or if you have a bladder or bowel obstruction.
To make sure you can safely take pyridostigmine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
asthma; or
kidney disease.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether pyridostigmine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using pyridostigmine.
It is not known whether pyridostigmine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Pyridostigmine is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
