Neostigmine (Injection)

Introduction

Neostigmine (nee-oh-STIG-meen)

Treats myasthenia gravis. Also given after surgery to help reverse the effects of certain types of anesthesia on your muscles.

Brand Name(s)

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.
• You will receive this medicine in a hospital or surgery center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking hydrocortisone or prednisone tablets or liquid. Tell your doctor if you are also taking an antibiotic to treat or prevent an infection, such as neomycin, streptomycin, or kanamycin. Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking medicine to treat a heart rhythm problem, such as quinidine, procainamide (Procanbid®), Flecainide (Tambocor®), or sotalol (Betapace®).

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat.
• Lightheadedness or fainting.
• Muscle cramps or weakness.
• Seizures.
• Twitching, or muscle movements you cannot control.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness or weakness.
• Drooling, or more saliva than usual.
• Headache.
• Joint pain, muscle cramps.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain.
• Runny nose, watery eyes, sweating.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have asthma, heart rhythm problems, seizures (epilepsy), overactive thyroid, or stomach problems.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used