Bentyl is used for treating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Bentyl is an anticholinergic. It works by blocking a chemical in the smooth muscle of the stomach and intestines, causing them to relax, which reduces cramping.
If you miss a dose of Bentyl, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Store Bentyl at room temperature, below 86 degrees F (30 degrees C). Protect from freezing. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Bentyl out of the reach of children and away from pets.
you have inflammation of the esophagus due to acid reflux, loss of strength in the intestinal muscles, or chronic inflammation and ulceration of the bowel
Some medical conditions may interact with Bentyl. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
if you have chronic inflammation or ulcers of the bowel, diarrhea, enlargement of the prostrate, hiatal hernia, kidney or liver disease, a nervous system disease, overactive thyroid, or urinary blockage or retention
Some medicines may interact with Bentyl. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
Metoclopramide or phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine) because their effectiveness may be decreased by Bentyl
This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Bentyl may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.
Bentyl may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or lightheadedness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Bentyl with caution. Do not drive or perform other possible unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Bentyl; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.
Bentyl may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; alcohol, hot weather, exercise, or fever may increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects.
Bentyl should not be used in children younger 6 months; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Bentyl while you are pregnant. Bentyl is found in breast milk. Do not breastfeed while taking Bentyl.
Blurred vision; constipation; decreased sweating; difficulty sleeping; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; headache; lightheadedness; loss of taste; nausea; nervousness.
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); agitation; confusion; diarrhea; difficulty focusing your eyes; difficulty moving; difficulty speaking; difficulty urinating; disorientation; exaggerated sense of well-being; fainting; hallucinations; pounding in the chest; rapid heartbeat; short-term memory loss; unusual weakness; vomiting.