BELLADONNA TINCTURE (bell-a-don'na)
Classifications: anticholinergic; antimuscarinic, antispasmodic; Therapeutic: anticholinergic; antispasmodic Prototype: Atropine Pregnancy Category: C
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Availability
2733 mg/100 mL tincture
Action
Reversibly blocks action of acetylcholine at parasympathetic neuroeffector sites.
Therapeutic Effect
Belladonna inhibits smooth muscle contractions and suppresses secretions of secretory glands.
Uses
Adjunct in treatment of peptic ulcer disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and neurogenic bowel disturbances. Also for dysmenorrhea,
nocturnal enuresis, spasms of urinary tract, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, vertigo, and for symptomatic relief of parkinsonism.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to anticholinergic drugs; obstructive uropathy, atony of urinary bladder; esophageal reflux, obstructive
disease of GI tract, intestinal atony, paralytic ileus, severe ulcerative colitis, toxic megacolon; myasthenia gravis; narrow-angle
glaucoma; unstable cardiovascular status in acute hemorrhages; pregnancy (category C), lactation.
Cautious Use
Autonomic neuropathy; heart disease, hypertension; patients >40 y (higher incidence of glaucoma).
Route & Dosage
Antispasmodic Adult: PO 0.61 mL t.i.d. or q.i.d. Child: PO 0.1 mL/kg/d in 34 divided doses (max: 3.5 mL/d)
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Administration
Oral
- Administer 3060 min before meals and at bedtime.
- Space administration of antacid and belladonna preparations at least 2 h apart.
- Store at 15°30° C (59°86° F) in tightly covered, light-resistant containers, unless otherwise
directed.
Adverse Effects (≥1%)
All: Dose related.
CNS: Excitement (young children and older adults), confusion, delirium.
CV: Rapid heartbeat, tachycardia, palpitation.
Special Senses: Blurred vision, mydriasis, photophobia.
GI: Dry mouth, constipation. Urogenital: Urinary retention, urgency.
Interactions
Drug: Amantadine, antihistamines,
tricyclic antidepressants,
quinidine, disopyramide, procainamide have additive anticholinergic effects;
levodopa effects decreased;
methotrimeprazine may precipitate extrapyramidal effects; antipsychotic effects of
phenothiazines decreased (decreased absorption).
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Readily from GI tract.
Onset: 12 h.
Distribution: Well distributed in body; crosses blood-brain barrier.
Elimination: Unchanged in urine.
Nursing Implications
Assessment & Drug Effects
- Monitor ambulation of older adults or debilitated patients carefully, since drug may cause drowsiness and confusion.
- Monitor I&O and assess for urinary retention.
Patient & Family Education
- Note: Increase in fluid intake and bulk in diet may prevent or relieve constipation. Notify physician if constipation persists.
- Avoid hot baths, saunas, and strenuous work or exercise during hot and humid weather.
- Do not drive or engage in potentially hazardous activities until response to drug is known.
- Practice meticulous oral hygiene. Sugarless gum, lemon drops, and frequent sips of water may help dry mouth.