Alverine citrate is a type of medication known as an antispasmodic. Its primary function involves relaxing smooth muscles found in the body, particularly within the gut and uterus. This action aims to alleviate discomfort and regulate muscle activity that can become overactive in certain conditions. The medication does not affect muscles in the heart, blood vessels, or trachea.
This medication is designed to address symptoms that arise from uncontrolled muscle contractions rather than curing underlying diseases. It acts directly on the affected muscles, helping to restore a more normal and comfortable state.
Conditions Alverine Citrate Treats
Alverine citrate is primarily used to relieve symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common digestive disorder. Individuals with IBS often experience abdominal pain, cramping, spasms, bloating, and changes in bowel habits like constipation or diarrhea. Alverine citrate helps by relaxing the gut muscles, which reduces the frequency and intensity of these painful spasms.
The medication also provides relief for symptoms of diverticular disease of the colon. In this condition, small pouches can form in the gut lining, and when these pouches become inflamed or irritated, they can cause pain and discomfort. By relaxing the smooth muscles in the colon, alverine citrate can help alleviate the cramping and pain associated with this condition.
Furthermore, alverine citrate is used to manage painful menstruation, also known as primary dysmenorrhea. During menstruation, the uterus contracts, which can lead to cramping and pain. Alverine citrate helps relax the smooth muscles of the uterus, thereby reducing the severity of these painful contractions and providing symptomatic relief.
How Alverine Citrate Works
Alverine citrate functions as an antispasmodic agent, directly influencing the smooth muscles within the digestive tract and uterus. This direct action causes these muscles to relax, counteracting the spasms that lead to pain and discomfort in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and painful menstruation.
One way alverine citrate achieves muscle relaxation is by inhibiting the entry of calcium ions into smooth muscle cells. Calcium plays a significant role in muscle contraction, so by blocking its influx, the medication helps prevent excessive contractions. This action is particularly relevant for spastic conditions where muscle relaxation provides substantial symptom relief.
Alverine citrate also interacts with serotonin receptors in the gut, which helps modulate signaling pathways involved in gut motility. This interaction can reduce rectal hypersensitivity, a common issue in conditions like IBS.
Important Safety Information
Like all medications, alverine citrate can cause side effects, although not every individual experiences them. Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, and headaches. These effects are generally mild and temporary, often resolving without medical intervention.
More serious, yet rare, side effects can occur, such as allergic reactions like rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. In such instances, immediate medical attention is necessary. Additionally, some individuals might experience gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea or constipation. Reversible jaundice and abnormal liver function tests have also been reported.
Alverine citrate can interact with other medications, particularly those that depress the central nervous system (CNS). Combining alverine citrate with drugs such as benzodiazepines, opioids, or certain antidepressants can increase the risk or severity of CNS depression, leading to enhanced dizziness and drowsiness. It is also advisable to avoid alcohol consumption while taking alverine citrate, as it can worsen side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
It is important to inform a healthcare provider about all medications being taken, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products, to assess for potential interactions. Individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to alverine citrate or any of its components should not use this medication. It is also not recommended for those with paralytic ileus or intestinal obstruction. Patients who experience persistent or bothersome side effects, or who develop new symptoms, should consult their doctor.