![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 124px 36px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 22px 22px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 24px 24px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Pyridostigmine
INFORMATION ABOUT PYRIDOSTIGMINE
Pyridostigmine Uses
Pyridostigmine is used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, paralytic ileus, post-operative urinary retention and reversal of effect of skeletal muscle relaxant after surgery.
How Pyridostigmine works
Pyridostigmine increases the levels of acetylcholine (chemical messenger) which allows free transmission of signals across the nerves and muscles.
Common side effects of Pyridostigmine
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Nausea, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Abdominal cramp, Salivation, Constriction of pupil, Lacrimation (flow of tears), Increased bronchial secretions, Muscle twitch, Tremors, Pain during periods
CONTENT DETAILS
Last updated
10 Apr 2025 | 04:47 AM (UTC)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 50px 50px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
We provide you with authentic, trustworthy and revelant information
Read our editorial policy
Medicine brands for Pyridostigmine
Expert advice for Pyridostigmine
- You have been prescribed Pyridostigmine for treatment of myasthenia gravis.
- It may also be used to treat inactivity of the muscle in the intestines (paralytic ileus) and difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention) after an operation.
- Take it with food to avoid an upset stomach.
- Take it as per the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Overdosing can result in extreme muscle weakness.
- It may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it may worsen the side effects.
- Inform your doctor if you have an existing kidney problem, parkinson's disease, asthma, or stomach disorders.
- You have been prescribed Pyridostigmine for treatment of myasthenia gravis.
- It may also be used to treat inactivity of the muscle in the intestines (paralytic ileus) and difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention) after an operation.
- Take it with food to avoid an upset stomach.
- Take it as per the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Overdosing can result in extreme muscle weakness.
- It may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it may worsen the side effects.
- Inform your doctor if you have an existing kidney problem, parkinson's disease, asthma, or stomach disorders.
Frequently asked questions for Pyridostigmine
Pyridostigmine helps reduce and improve muscle weakness and hence relieves the symptoms of myasthenia gravis but does not cure it. The length of time for which you have to take Pyridostigmine will depend on your needs. You should not stop taking Pyridostigmine until and unless advised by your doctor, even if you start feeling better.
No, Pyridostigmine is not a steroid. It belongs to anticholinesterases group of medicines. Pyridostigmine works by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine.
You should immediately seek help at a nearby hospital or contact your doctor urgently. An excess dose of Pyridostigmine may cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, salivation, blurred vision, excessive weakness, difficulty in breathing and even paralysis.
Yes, Pyridostigmine is safe if used according to the doctor’s advice. You should not exceed the dose as prescribed by the doctor.
Pyridostigmine may cause blurred vision, and therefore you should limit driving until you know how it affects you.
A very small quantity of Pyridostigmine passes into breast milk, which may or may not affect your baby. Ask your doctor if you can continue to breastfeed your baby.
No, Pyridostigmine should not be taken for any type of constipation. It is used only when constipation occurs due to paralysis of the intestine and strictly on prescription by the doctor.
No, there is no evidence that Pyridostigmine has abuse potential.
Pyridostigmine should not be taken by patients who are allergic to it. It should also be avoided by patients who are constipated or cannot urinate, unless the doctor has advised to use this medicine. This is because Pyridostigmine is only used to treat certain types of constipation and inability to pass urine.
No, Pyridostigmine does not cause weight gain. If you experience weight gain, it may be due to inactivity related to muscle weakness in myasthenia gravis.