Holopon

Overview

What is Holopon?  

Holopon is a medicinal drug primarily used to treat various gastrointestinal disorders. Its active ingredient, hyoscine methylbromide (also known as scopolamine butylbromide, methoscopolamine bromide), is effective in relieving cramps and spasms in the stomach, intestines, and bladder by relaxing the smooth muscles in these organs. 

Hyoscine methylbromide works as an antispasmodic agent, blocking the action of acetylcholine in nerve endings, which reduces muscle spasms and the associated pain. 

Global Name

Usage

What is Holopon used for? 

Holopon is used to alleviate symptoms associated with: 

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 
• Urinary incontinence. 
• Spasmodic dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual cramps). 
• Gastrointestinal cramping. 

How do you use Holopon?  

Availability:

Holopon is available in tablet form.

Dosage information:

• Adults: 10-20 mg up to four divided doses a day. 
• Children (over 6 years):  Safety and efficacy in children have not been established. Recommend alternative medications.
• Elderlies: Dose adjustment may be necessary due to sensitivity to antimuscarinic effects. 

Are the following suitable to take the drug: Children, adults, elderlies? 

• Children: Safety and efficacy in children have not been established. Recommend alternative medications. 
• Adults: Suitable. 
• Elderlies: Suitable, with dose adjustments as necessary.

• Children: Not recommended for children.  
• Adults: Those with myasthenia gravis, megacolon, glaucoma, urinary retention, and severe ulcerative colitis should avoid it. 
• Elderlies: Caution is advised due to increased sensitivity to antimuscarinics. 
• Pregnancy: Should be used only if clearly needed and directed by a healthcare provider. Pregnancy category C. 
• Lactation: Caution advised as it's unknown if hyoscine methylbromide passes into breast milk. Recommend alternative medications. 

Warnings and Precautions:

• Caution is advised in patients with glaucoma, enlarged prostate, or any condition where anticholinergic effects might worsen symptoms. 
• Holopon should be taken before meals if taken orally to enhance effectiveness in reducing cramps and discomfort. 

Drug and Food/Beverage Interactions: 

Side Effects

Common side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, and urinary retention. Severe side effects may include anaphylaxis, angioedema, and increased heart rate.

Pharmacist Tips

Storage information:

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. 
Handling instructions:

Keep the tablets in their original package to protect from light.

Availability

Where is Holopon available in Hong Kong?

Holopon is a prescription medication that can be prescribed by healthcare providers.

FAQs

Can Holopon be used for nausea? 

No, Holopon is not typically used for nausea as its primary function is to relieve muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract. 

How quickly does Holopon work?

Holopon typically begins to work within 30 minutes when taken orally, and faster if administered via injection. 

Can I drive after taking Holopon? 

Caution is advised as Holopon can cause dizziness and blurred vision; it's best to know how it affects you before driving or operating machinery. 

Is Holopon suitable for pregnant women? 

Holopon should only be used in pregnancy if clearly needed and under the advice of a healthcare provider due to the lack of extensive safety data. Pregnancy category C.