Intestinal Spasm
“Intestinal spasm” refers to the abnormal condition of uncontrolled contraction of muscles of small and large intestines. It is often associated with abdominal pain and cramps, and may also be accompanied by bloating and diarrhoea.
Intestinal spasm could have various underlying causes, for example lithiasis (the presence of stony mass in the body), gastroenteritis (inflammation of the bowel), food allergy, drug reaction and emotional stress.
Limitations of Use of Intestinal Antispasmodics
Intestinal antispasmodics are a group of drugs used for relieving spasms, thus can help to alleviate abdominal pain and cramps. Given that there are numerous causes for intestinal spasms, the antispasmodics offer only symptomatic relief rather than a permanent cure. Indiscriminate use of intestinal antispasmodics without proper assessment by a doctor may result in covering up signs of serious illnesses and makes it more difficult for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis. Treatment could be delayed as a result and the consequence may be very serious. In the case of appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix, which is a small tube attached to the large intestine), significant delays in diagnosis could lead to serious complications such as abscess (a collection of pus in tissues), perforation (a lining of tissues split open) and peritonitis (inflammation of the inner lining of the tummy), and worsen the condition.
Common Oral Intestinal Antispasmodics
In general, intestinal antispasmodics work by relaxing the smooth muscle, thereby relieve spasmodic pain. Commonly used intestinal antispasmodics can be generally classified into two categories including smooth muscle relaxants such as alverine and mebeverine, and anticholinergics such as hyoscine.
Common Side Effects*
- Smooth muscle relaxants: Nausea, dyspnoea, headache, dizziness, pruritus, rash, etc.
- Anticholinergics: Drowsiness, constipation, rapid/irregular heartbeat, dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, etc.
General Advice on Taking Intestinal Antispasmodics*
- As intestinal antispasmodics may suppress symptoms and hinder the finding of underlying illness, you should seek advice from a doctor before taking intestinal antispasmodics. Delay in treating the underlying illness may result in serious consequence.
- Intestinal antispasmodics are mainly for symptomatic relief rather than a permanent cure, therefore excessive use of these drugs should be avoided.
- Do not exceed the length of treatment/dose as recommended or prescribed by a doctor.
- It is advisable to take the drugs 30 minutes to one hour before meals or as instructed by your doctor. They should be taken with sufficient amount of water.
- As the drugs may cause dizziness/drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery if affected.
Storage of the Drugs
The drugs should be stored in a dry and cool place. Generally, they do not need to be refrigerated unless otherwise stated in the drug labels. Oral drugs should be stored properly to avoid accidents of mistaken consumption by children.
* Information contained herein may not cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects.
Drug Office
Department of Health
Oct 2023
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