Pyridostigmine bromide

Pyridostigmine bromide is a medication primarily used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, a long-term neuromuscular disease that leads to varying degrees of skeletal muscle weakness. It is also used in the management of postoperative distention and atony of the bladder and gastrointestinal tract.

Pharmacology

Pyridostigmine bromide is a cholinesterase inhibitor, which means it inhibits the enzyme acetylcholinesterase from breaking down acetylcholine, thereby increasing both the level and duration of the neurotransmitter action. This action enhances neuromuscular transmission and increases muscle strength in patients with myasthenia gravis.

Medical uses

The primary use of pyridostigmine bromide is in the treatment of myasthenia gravis. It is also used to treat orthostatic hypotension and postoperative distention and atony of the bladder and gastrointestinal tract.

Side effects

Common side effects of pyridostigmine bromide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, increased salivation, and rash. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as bradycardia, hypotension, and muscle weakness.

History

Pyridostigmine bromide was first synthesized in the 1940s and has been used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis since the 1950s. It was also used by the U.S. military during the Gulf War as a nerve gas antidote.

See also

• Myasthenia gravis
• Cholinesterase inhibitor
• Acetylcholine
• Acetylcholinesterase