Buscopan

What is it?

Buscopan® contains a medicine called Hyoscine-N-Butylbromide which belongs to a group of medicines called antispasmodics.

Why is it used?

It is used to relieve cramps in the muscles of your stomach, intestines, bowels and bladder. For procedures such as CT Colonography and MRI scans (including small bowel, bladder and gynaecological examinations), it can help relieve spasm and discomfort as well as improve image quality (to aid diagnosis).

How is it given?

One ampoule (20mg) will be injected into a vein by a radiographer or radiologist.

Possible side effects

The following side effects may happen with this injection, although not everyone experiences them:

• Blurred vision – you may experience blurred vision for a short period after the injection. This should wear off after about 30 minutes
• Dry mouth – you may experience dryness in the mouth for a short period after the injection
• Dizziness and increased heart rate – can occur following injection for a short period.

Warnings

Do not drive or operate machinery after an injection of Buscopan® until any blurred vision or dizziness has gone.

Advice

• In the rare event that following the examination you develop painful, blurred vision in one or both eyes, you must attend hospital immediately for assessment
• If any of the side effects persist, please seek medical advice
• If you have any unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, change in bowel movement, low blood pressure or dizziness, contact your doctor.

About this leaflet

Author: MRI Lead Radiographer, Kayleigh Romagnoli
Written: December 2018
Approved: February 2019
Reviewed: August 2024
Review date: August 2027
Edition: v4

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk