Products
Pyridostigmine is commercially available in tablet form (Mestinon, -retard). It has been approved in many countries since 1953.
Structure and properties
Pyridostigmine (C9H13N2O2, Mr = 181.2 g/mol) is present in drugs as pyridostigmine bromide, a white, crystalline, deliquescent powder that is very soluble in water.
Effects
Pyridostigmine (ATC N07AA02) is a cholinesterase inhibitor. It is cholinergic (indirectly parasympathomimetic).
Indications
- Intestinal atony
- Atonic constipation
- Myasthenia gravis pseudoparalytica
Worth knowing
The Swiss Army uses pyridostigmine tablets (30 mg) as a protective medication in the event of a possible attack with nerve agents. For this purpose, 1 tablet is taken every 8 hours.
