Hugs, Des
Co-Moderator ~ IBS Forum
"Sometimes I'm afraid, and I don't feel that tough...But I'll stand back up" - Sugarland
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Does anyone know what the difference is between the two major antispasmodic types (dicyclomine vs. hyoscyamine)? I'm wondering if it has anything to do with the active ingredients and the sensitivity to people but I have been searching the web and can't figure it out. If anyone has a clue to this, please let me know... my curiosity has the best of me on this.
Hey Des,
Both kinds of anti-spasmodics have the effect of blocking acetylcholine receptors in smooth muscle cells (the kind found in the gut). The difference may simply be in which receptors the drugs act on. For instance, there are several different SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) medications used to treat depression, and they differ simply in the receptors that they act on in the brain. I think the same is true for hyoscyamine and dicyclomine. What works well for one person may not work as well in another. Fundamentally, they have similar actions.
Thanks Sarita... that certainly makes a lot of sense :)
Hugs, Des
Co-Moderator ~ IBS Forum
"Sometimes I'm afraid, and I don't feel that tough...But I'll stand back up" - Sugarland
Please help Healing Well continue to help others by donating http://www.healingwell.com/donate