Description:

Buscolex 10mg Tablets (Hyoscine Butylbromide BP 10mg) is an antispasmodic medication used to relieve smooth muscle spasms and associated pain in the gastrointestinal tract, biliary tract, urinary tract, and female genital organs. It is indicated for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), abdominal cramps, dysmenorrhea (painful periods), biliary colic, renal colic, and other spasm-related pain (e.g., spasms in the gut, bladder, or uterus). It works by relaxing smooth muscles without significant anticholinergic effects on the central nervous system or salivary glands compared to atropine. In Ghana, Buscolex is a common, affordable generic brand (often sold as Buscolex Tablets or similar) available in pharmacies in Accra for quick relief of stomach cramps and menstrual pain.

Prescription:

Over-the-counter (OTC) in many regions, including Ghana, for short-term symptomatic relief (available without prescription in pharmacies). However, consult a doctor or pharmacist for persistent symptoms, first-time use, or if you have underlying conditions (e.g., glaucoma, prostate issues). Prescription may be required for prolonged or high-dose use.

Therapeutic Category:

Antispasmodic / Anticholinergic (Quaternary ammonium compound; smooth muscle relaxant for gastrointestinal, biliary, and genitourinary spasms.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Hyoscine butylbromide (also known as scopolamine butylbromide) BP 10 mg per tablet. Other ingredients (excipients, typical): Calcium hydrogen phosphate, maize starch, soluble starch, stearic acid, tartaric acid, sucrose, talc, acacia, titanium dioxide, and other coating agents (sugar-coated tablets). Exact list on product label.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Buscolex 10mg Tablets (standard sugar-coated tablets). Related variants: Buscolex or similar generics in blister packs (e.g., 1×10 or 10×10); other brands like Buscomed Hyoscine 10mg, Buscopan (original), or generics (e.g., Hyoscine Butylbromide 10mg Tablets). No major variants beyond the 10mg strength (injections exist separately).

Consume Type:

Oral – Tablet (sugar-coated; swallow whole with water; do not chew or crush to preserve coating).

Directions/Usage:

Take as directed on the label or by a healthcare professional:

• Adults and children over 12 years: 1–2 tablets (10–20 mg) up to 4 times daily (maximum 80 mg/day).
• Take when spasms occur or as needed for cramps.
• Children 6–12 years: 1 tablet up to 3 times daily (consult doctor).
• For IBS or menstrual cramps: Use at onset of symptoms. Do not exceed recommended dose or duration without advice (short-term use preferred). Take with or after food if stomach upset occurs.

Common Side Effects: Common (usually mild):

• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Blurred vision or dilated pupils (mild)
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Nausea or heartburn Rare/serious (seek help): Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), fast heartbeat, urinary retention, confusion (especially elderly), or glaucoma precipitation (in susceptible individuals).

Package Type:

Blister packs (commonly 1×10 tablets per strip, packs of 10×10 = 100 tablets or smaller like 1×10/2×10; foil blisters in carton with leaflet).

Storage Advice:

Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep in original packaging, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Consult doctor before use if pregnant/breastfeeding (generally safe but confirm), have glaucoma (narrow-angle risk), myasthenia gravis, prostate enlargement, urinary retention, intestinal obstruction, or heart conditions.
• Avoid in children under 6 years without advice.
• May cause drowsiness—avoid driving/machinery if affected.
• Do not use long-term without medical supervision (may mask serious conditions).
• If symptoms persist > few days, worsen, or include blood in stool/vomit, fever, or severe pain, seek medical help.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Product Substitutes:

Similar hyoscine butylbromide 10mg tablets in Ghana include:

• Buscopan 10mg Tablets (original brand by Sanofi).
• Buscomed Hyoscine 10mg Tablets.
• Generic Hyoscine Butylbromide 10mg (various importers, e.g., from India).
• Alternatives: Mebeverine (Colofac generics), dicyclomine, or peppermint oil capsules for IBS-like spasms (consult pharmacist). Widely available at pharmacies like Scab Pharmacy, Meldinpharma, or Beybee in Accra.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Luex Healthcare (or associated generic producer; Buscolex is a branded generic line). Marketed/distributed in Ghana by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Luex Healthcare, Meldinpharma, Scab Pharmacy Limited, or similar Accra distributors).

Country of Origin:

India (typical for generic hyoscine butylbromide tablets like Buscolex imported to Ghana; BP-compliant and common in local markets).