How are folks able to tolerate Mestinon (Pyridostigmine)?
The doctor was having me take 60mg 3 times daily. Leg cramps and gut issues ended that. Does anyone have any tricks to try so I can get back on this med?
I am taking almost 10 - 60 mg tablets per day just to make the MG symptoms tolerable. because of that in order to seettle the stomach issue my doctor prescribed a PPI inhibitor called Omeprazole. that did the trick. No more stomach cramps
A daily Omeprazole (Prilosec) was prescribed for me years ago for acid reflux and I now consider it one of my most important meds. It reduces stomach acid production and makes everything, including aspirin and other harsh drugs, go down easier. By the way, unlike all other meds, it is best taken about a half hour BEFORE you eat. Mixing it with food reduces its effectiveness a bit.
Pyridostigmine is a great laxative. We've all shared your issues. You'll need to take a regular anti-diarrheal or you could damage the plumbing. (smile). Leg cramps are a common side effect. But if they are severe, they could indicate a problem with acetylcholine toxicity. Pyridostigmine works by inhibiting an enzyme that breaks down unneeded acetylcholine. If acetylcholine subsequently becomes excessive, screaming leg cramps can result. Talk to your doctor about switching to an extended (slow-release) tablet or splitting your 60mg pills in half and taking them more often. That's what my doctor advised.
Pyridostigmine is a stop-gap medicine and can usually be reduced or eliminated as immunosuppressants take effect. I have been off for many years now but still have to pop one periodically to reopen a sagging eye.May want to take Mestinon 180mg extended release tablets. Should last 12 hours.
