N-Butyl Scopolammonium Bromide

Description

N-butylscopolammonium bromide has been used for many years in Europe as a first line of treatment for minor gas colic in horses. It is a water-soluble, white crystalline substance that is the main ingredient in Buscopan. As a short-acting antispasmodic with no sedative properties, it is unlikely to mask more serious medical or surgical emergencies.

Usage

N-butylscopolammonium bromide is used to treat minor gas colic in horses. It is also used by some veterinarians to treat esophageal obstruction or "choke" because of it's ability to relax the smooth muscle of the esophagus.

N-butylscopolammonium bromide has been found to be effective for relaxing the rectum and decreasing rectal straining, making rectal examination less difficult or risky for the animal.

Dosage and Administration

Side Effects

N-butylscopolammonium bromide will cause temporary increase in heart rate for approximately 30 minutes. It may also cause temporary dilation of the pupils of the eyes.

Precautions

N-butylscopolammonium bromide should not be used when abdominal pain, accompanied by lack of gastrointestinal activity, is present. Some veterinarians use heart rate as a tentative indicator of pain severity. When this drug is being administered, approximately 30 minutes should elapse before heart rate is used as an indication of the horse's discomfort.

N-butylscopolammonium bromide is FDA-approved for use with horses. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

N-butylscopolammonium bromide is a prohibited substance in most sanctioned competitions. It is important to check with the individual regulatory group.

Interactions

The effects of N-butylscopolammonium bromide may increase when used with other anticholinergic drugs, used to inhibit the parasympathetic nerve impulses responsible for involuntary movement of small muscles in the gastrointestinal tract.

Overdose

Overdose causes an increase in duration and severity of side effects and may cause mild colic.