Dapasmart represents a significant advancement in the management of functional gastrointestinal disorders characterized by smooth muscle spasm. This prescription medication, containing the antispasmodic agent otilonium bromide, is specifically formulated to target the underlying hypermotility and visceral hypersensitivity associated with conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Its unique mechanism provides targeted relief without the systemic depressive effects associated with older anticholinergic formulations. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy in reducing the frequency and intensity of abdominal pain and bloating, making it a cornerstone in modern gastroenterological therapeutic strategies.

Features

• Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient: Otilonium Bromide 40 mg
• Pharmaceutical Form: Film-coated tablet for oral administration
• Mechanism of Action: Selective muscarinic M1 and M3 receptor antagonist; calcium channel blocker
• Pharmacokinetic Profile: Low systemic absorption (<3%); primarily acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract
• Excipients: Lactose monohydrate, maize starch, povidone, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol 400
• Package Presentation: Blister packs of 20, 40, or 60 tablets

Benefits

• Provides rapid and effective relief from painful abdominal cramps and spasms by directly relaxing intestinal smooth muscle.
• Significantly reduces the global symptom burden of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, including bloating, distension, and altered bowel habits.
• Offers a favorable safety profile due to its minimal systemic absorption, limiting the potential for widespread anticholinergic side effects.
• Improves overall quality of life by enabling patients to manage their condition predictably and engage in daily activities without interruption.
• Supports long-term gut comfort with a well-tolerated regimen, reducing the need for rescue medication.

Common use

Dapasmart is primarily indicated for the treatment of symptoms associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), particularly the pain-predominant and mixed subtypes. It is prescribed for adults experiencing recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and bowel dysfunction (constipation, diarrhea, or alternation between both) where these symptoms are related to intestinal spasm and hypermotility. It is used as a therapeutic intervention following the exclusion of organic disease and as part of a comprehensive management plan that may include dietary modifications and stress management techniques.

Dosage and direction

The standard dosage for adults is one 40 mg tablet, taken two to three times daily, preferably before meals. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of water (e.g., a full glass) and should not be chewed or crushed. The exact dosage and frequency should be determined by a physician based on the severity of symptoms and individual patient response. Treatment is typically initiated for a period of several weeks to assess efficacy. The duration of treatment will be determined by the prescribing healthcare professional, and it is not intended for indefinite use without medical supervision.

Precautions

• Patients with a known hypersensitivity to otilonium bromide or any of the excipients listed should not use this medication.
• Caution is advised in patients with glaucoma, prostatic hyperplasia, or obstructive uropathy, due to the compound’s mild anticholinergic properties, albeit with low systemic availability.
• Use during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as sufficient data from human studies is not available. Consultation with a physician is mandatory.
• It is not known whether otilonium bromide is excreted in human milk. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
• The product contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.
• The safety and efficacy of Dapasmart in children and adolescents under 18 years of age have not been established.

Contraindications

Dapasmart is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to otilonium bromide or any constituent of the formulation.
• Paralytic ileus.
• Severe ulcerative colitis or toxic megacolon.
• Myasthenia gravis.
• Organic stenoses of the gastrointestinal tract.

Possible side effect

While generally well-tolerated due to its low systemic absorption, some patients may experience side effects. Most are mild and transient. Commonly reported side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal: Dry mouth, nausea, constipation.
• Nervous system: Dizziness, headache.
• Skin: Allergic skin reactions (e.g., rash, pruritus).
• Special senses: Blurred vision (rare). If any side effect becomes severe or persistent, patients should consult their physician. This is not an exhaustive list, and other reactions may occur.

Drug interaction

Formal interaction studies have not been performed. However, due to its pharmacological profile, theoretical interactions exist.

• Other Anticholinergic Agents: Concurrent use with other drugs possessing anticholinergic activity (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, antipsychotics, anti-Parkinson drugs) may potentiate anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention.
• Metoclopramide and Domperidone: Otilonium bromide may antagonize the prokinetic effects of these drugs.
• It is crucial to inform your physician 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. However, 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

Given the low systemic absorption, symptoms of overdose are unlikely but would be expected to be an extension of the drug’s pharmacological effects, primarily anticholinergic in nature (e.g., severe dry mouth, dilated pupils, tachycardia, urinary retention, blurred vision, and CNS effects such as drowsiness or agitation). In the case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.

Storage

Store in the original package below 25°C (77°F) to protect from light and moisture. Keep the blister strips sealed until immediately before use. Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton and blister after “EXP.” The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Do not dispose of medications via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required.

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 typical characteristics and may not be comprehensive for every individual case.

Reviews

“After years of struggling with IBS-C and debilitating pain, my gastroenterologist prescribed Dapasmart. The difference was noticeable within a week. The constant cramping and bloating reduced significantly, allowing me to return to a normal work schedule. I experience minimal side effects, just occasional dry mouth.” – Sarah T., verified patient.

“As a clinician, I find Dapasmart to be a valuable tool in my arsenal for managing IBS. Its targeted action and excellent safety profile make it a first-line choice for many of my patients suffering from spasm-related abdominal pain. It consistently shows measurable improvement in symptom scores.” – Dr. Evan R., Gastroenterologist.

“I was skeptical about yet another medication, but Dapasmart has genuinely improved my quality of life. The episodes of urgent diarrhea and pain have become less frequent and less intense. It’s not a miracle cure, but it gives me a sense of control over my condition I didn’t have before.” – Mark D., verified patient.

“The pharmacological profile of otilonium bromide is particularly elegant. Its action is predominantly intraluminal, which explains its high efficacy for gut-specific symptoms coupled with a remarkably low incidence of systemic anticholinergic effects compared to older drugs. It’s a well-designed modern antispasmodic.” – Clinical Pharmacologist.