Neostigmine slows the breakdown of acetylcholine, the messenger that tells muscle to contract. More of it stays available at the nerve ending, which strengthens weak muscle in myasthenia gravis and reverses the muscle relaxants used during surgery.

What Neostigmine Is Used For

Myasthenia gravis, to improve muscle strength
Reversing muscle relaxants at the end of an operation
Bladder or bowel that has not restarted after surgery
Certain overdoses, in hospital

Common Side Effects

Abdominal cramps and loose motions
Excess saliva and watering eyes
Nausea
Slow heartbeat

Precautions

Timing matters in myasthenia, and doses are set around meals and daily activity by the treating doctor. Too much can cause a crisis that looks like the disease worsening, so any increase in weakness, breathing difficulty or swallowing trouble needs urgent medical attention rather than an extra tablet. The injectable form is used only in hospital.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.