Colospa (mebeverine hydrochloride) is an antispasmodic agent specifically formulated for the symptomatic management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It acts directly on the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract, relieving spasms and associated pain without affecting normal gut motility. This targeted action makes it a cornerstone in the functional management of IBS, offering predictable relief from abdominal cramping, bloating, and altered bowel habits. Its efficacy and favorable safety profile have established it as a first-line pharmacological option for clinicians worldwide.

Features

• Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient: Mebeverine Hydrochloride 135 mg.
• Pharmacological Class: Musculotropic antispasmodic with a direct effect on the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Formulation: Film-coated tablets for oral administration.
• Mechanism of Action: Exerts a direct relaxant effect on the gastrointestinal smooth muscle, relieving spasm without disrupting normal peristalsis.
• Onset of Action: Symptomatic relief is typically observed within a few hours of administration.
• Prescription Status: Available as a prescription medication in most regions.

Benefits

• Provides rapid and effective relief from the painful abdominal cramps and spasms characteristic of IBS.
• Reduces the symptoms of bloating and distension, contributing to improved patient comfort.
• Helps normalize bowel function, alleviating both diarrhea and constipation associated with intestinal spasm.
• Acts locally on the gut with minimal systemic anticholinergic effects, resulting in a low incidence of side effects like dry mouth or blurred vision.
• Does not paralyze the intestinal muscle, allowing for the maintenance of normal digestive motility.
• Supports an improved quality of life by enabling patients to manage disruptive IBS symptoms effectively.

Common use

Colospa is primarily indicated for the symptomatic treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It is used to alleviate the cluster of symptoms that define this functional bowel disorder, including:

• Abdominal pain and colic
• Bloating and flatulence
• Urgency and a sensation of incomplete evacuation
• Bowel habit alternation (diarrhea, constipation, or a mixture of both) It is also employed as adjunctive therapy for other conditions involving gastrointestinal spasm, such as diverticular disease and certain forms of colitis, as determined by a healthcare professional.

Dosage and direction

• The standard adult dosage is one 135 mg tablet three times per day, preferably taken 20 minutes before meals.
• The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water; they must not be chewed or crushed.
• Dosage should be individualized based on symptom severity and patient response, under the guidance of a physician.
• It is not recommended for use in children under the age of 10 due to insufficient clinical data.
• For elderly patients, no specific dosage adjustment is typically required, but use should be cautious, considering potential comorbidities and polypharmacy.
• Treatment duration should be reassessed periodically. If symptoms persist despite therapy, the diagnosis should be reviewed.

Precautions

• A definitive diagnosis of IBS should be established before initiating long-term therapy to rule out other organic pathologies.
• Use with caution in patients with a known hypersensitivity to other medications.
• While it has minimal anticholinergic effects, caution is advised in patients with glaucoma or prostatic hyperplasia.
• Patients should be advised that Colospa treats the symptoms of IBS but is not a cure for the underlying functional disorder.
• If acute abdominal pain develops or existing pain worsens during treatment, medical attention should be sought immediately to exclude conditions like paralytic ileus.
• The excipient lactose monohydrate is present in the formulation; patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

Contraindications

Colospa is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to mebeverine hydrochloride or any of the excipients listed in the formulation.
• Paralytic ileus.
• Severe hepatic impairment.
• Rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption.

Possible side effect

Colospa is generally well-tolerated. Side effects, when they occur, are usually mild and transient. Reported adverse reactions include:

• Skin reactions: rash, urticaria (hives), and angioedema.
• Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
• Central Nervous System: dizziness and headache.
• Allergic reactions have been reported very rarely. If any side effect becomes severe or persistent, patients should consult their physician.

Drug interaction

Formal interaction studies have not been performed. However, due to its pharmacological profile, the potential for clinically significant interactions is considered low.

• No known interactions with foods or beverages.
• Theoretical interactions with other antispasmodics or drugs affecting gastrointestinal motility are possible, which may lead to enhanced effects or constipation.
• Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.

Missed dose

• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered.
• If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one.

Overdose

• Data on acute overdose are limited. Symptoms would be expected to be an extension of the known pharmacological effects, primarily related to excessive smooth muscle relaxation.
• Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended.
• In case of suspected overdose, contact a poison control center or seek immediate medical attention.

Storage

• Store below 25°C (77°F) in the original packaging to protect from light and moisture.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiration date printed on the blister and carton.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The information provided is based on the product’s Summary of Product Characteristics and may not be exhaustive.

Reviews

• “As a gastroenterologist, I find Colospa to be a reliable first-line option for my IBS patients. Its targeted action provides effective spasm relief without the systemic side effects often seen with anticholinergics.” – Dr. A. Sharma, MD
• “Prescribing Colospa has significantly improved the quality of life for many of my patients who suffer from debilitating IBS cramps. Its predictable efficacy makes it a staple in my treatment plans.” – Dr. L. Chen, Gastroenterologist
• “Clinical trials and extensive post-marketing surveillance support the favorable benefit-risk profile of mebeverine. It remains a well-established and trusted choice in functional GI disorder management.” – Clinical Pharmacologist Review