drot 40mg injection - Drotaverine (40mg) medicine

Drotaverine 40 mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Mapra Laboratories Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for gastrointestinal and biliary spasms; limited for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 21, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
  • Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat.
  • Fainting or severe dizziness.
  • Chest pain or shortness of breath.
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising.
  • Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is drot 40mg injection used for?

Drotaverine 40 mg tablet is an antispasmodic medicine used to relieve smooth muscle spasms in the stomach, intestines, bile ducts, and urinary tract. It works by relaxing the muscles, which helps reduce pain and cramping. It is usually taken 2-3 times a day as prescribed by a doctor.

  • Generic Name: Drotaverine
  • Manufacturer: Mapra Laboratories Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 drot 40mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा ड्रोटावेरिन 40 मिलीग्राम की गोली है, जिसका उपयोग पेट, आंतों, पित्त नली और मूत्र मार्ग की मांसपेशियों में होने वाली ऐंठन और दर्द को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह मांसपेशियों को आराम देकर काम करती है। इसे डॉक्टर के कहे अनुसार ही लें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, मुँह सूखना, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और शरीर में गर्मी लगना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और अपने आप ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव जैसे तेज़ धड़कन, कम रक्तचाप, या एलर्जी होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपने आप मात्रा न बढ़ाएँ। इसे पानी के साथ निगलें। खाने के साथ लेने से पेट की जलन कम हो सकती है। दवा लेने के बाद चक्कर आने पर वाहन न चलाएँ। शराब न पिएँ। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएँ डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 drot 40mg injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Gastrointestinal spasms","description":"Relieves cramping and spasm in the stomach and intestines, often associated with irritable bowel syndrome or gastroenteritis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Biliary spasms","description":"Eases spasm in the bile ducts, which can occur in gallstones or after certain procedures.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Renal colic","description":"Helps relax the smooth muscle of the urinary tract, reducing pain from kidney stones.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Dysmenorrhea","description":"Reduces menstrual cramps by relaxing the uterine smooth muscle.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Labor pain","description":"Sometimes used to help relax the cervix during labor, but only under strict medical supervision.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Tension headache","description":"Occasionally used off-label for tension-type headaches, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Esophageal spasm","description":"May be used off-label to relieve spasm in the esophagus, but not a standard treatment.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Gastrointestinal spasms

Also treats: Biliary spasms, Renal colic, Dysmenorrhea

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Drotaverine
Brand NameAntispasmin DS 80mg Tablet
ManufacturerMapra Laboratories Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassGASTRO INTESTINAL
Action ClassPhosphodiesterase-IV inhibitors (Smooth Muscle Relaxant)
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food if it causes stomach upset.
2
Do not exceed the prescribed dose, as higher doses can cause low blood pressure and fast heartbeat.
3
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
4
Inform your doctor if you have heart, liver, or kidney disease before taking this medicine.
5
Do not take this medicine with levodopa or erectile dysfunction drugs like sildenafil.
6
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
7
Report any signs of allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or swelling, immediately.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Abdominal cramps
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Menstrual cramps
This medicine can help relieve uterine spasms.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Headache
This medicine is not a general painkiller for headaches.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. It undergoes some first-pass metabolism in the liver, but exact bioavailability data are not well established from the available information.
DistributionIt is widely distributed throughout the body tissues. It is highly bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin. The exact volume of distribution is not established from the available information.
Protein BindingApproximately 95-98% bound to plasma proteins, mainly albumin.
MetabolismThis medicine is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by the enzyme CYP3A4, into several metabolites. Some metabolites may have weak antispasmodic activity.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 8 to 12 hours, but this can vary between individuals.
ExcretionMetabolites are excreted mainly in the urine, with a smaller amount in the feces. Unchanged drug is not significantly excreted.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability is approximately 25-30% due to first-pass metabolism, but exact values may vary.
Onset of ActionRelief of spasm usually begins within 30 to 60 minutes after taking the tablet.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration is reached about 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe antispasmodic effect lasts for about 4 to 6 hours, so it is often taken 2 to 3 times a day.

How It Works

This medicine works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4), which leads to an increase in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) inside smooth muscle cells. The higher cAMP levels reduce the availability of calcium ions needed for muscle contraction, causing the smooth muscle to relax. This action is selective for smooth muscle and does not significantly affect skeletal muscle or heart muscle at usual doses. By relaxing the smooth muscle, it relieves spasms and the pain associated with them.

Mechanism Steps

1
Inhibition of PDE4: This medicine binds to and inhibits the phosphodiesterase 4 enzyme inside smooth muscle cells.
2
Increase in cAMP: Inhibition of PDE4 prevents the breakdown of cyclic AMP, leading to higher levels of cAMP within the cell.
3
Reduced calcium availability: Elevated cAMP reduces the release of calcium from intracellular stores and decreases calcium sensitivity of the contractile proteins.
4
Smooth muscle relaxation: With less calcium available, the smooth muscle fibers relax, relieving spasm and pain.

💡 How to Take drot 40mg injection

Strength: Drotaverine 40 mg immediate-release tablet

1Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
2Take it with or without food, but with food if it upsets your stomach.
3Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises.
4Take it at the same times each day to maintain a steady level in your body.
5If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 40 mg to 80 mg taken two to three times a day, depending on the condition being treated. For acute spasms, a doctor may prescribe a higher initial dose. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially dizziness and low blood pressure. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with severe kidney impairment, this medicine should be used with caution. The dose may need to be reduced. Consult your doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with severe liver impairment, this medicine is contraindicated. In mild to moderate liver impairment, use with caution and under medical supervision. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 240 mg, but this should not be exceeded without medical advice.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases dizziness and low blood pressure.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of drot 40mg injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take the tablet with food or milk to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water frequently or chew sugar-free gum. This usually goes away with continued use.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. If headache is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Lie down if you feel dizzy.
Flushing (Common (5-10%))
This is usually harmless and goes away on its own. If it bothers you, tell your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Fast or irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice palpitations, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath.
Low blood pressure (Rare (<0.1%))
If you feel faint, lightheaded, or have blurred vision, lie down and call your doctor right away.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and get emergency help if you have swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Blood disorders (Very rare (<0.01%))
Report any unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Liver problems
Seek medical advice if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Kidney problems
Report decreased urine output or swelling in the legs to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Levodopa Major
Sildenafil Major
Ketoconazole Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Amlodipine Moderate
Atropine Minor
Morphine Minor
Warfarin Minor
Metformin Minor
Omeprazole Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Levodopa
  • PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir)
  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin)
  • Antihypertensives

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol can increase the dizziness, drowsiness, and low blood pressure caused by this medicine. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe heart failure or other severe heart disease.","Severe liver disease.","Severe kidney disease.","Known allergy to drotaverine or any ingredient in the tablet.","Children under 12 years of age, unless prescribed by a pediatrician."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with low blood pressure or heart rhythm problems.","Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy.","Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.","Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially for heart disease, Parkinson's disease, or erectile dysfunction.","Do not take this medicine for longer than prescribed without consulting your doctor."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Because many drugs do, caution is advised. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe low blood pressure, fast heartbeat, and dizziness. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or a poison control center immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, with monitoring of vital signs.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dose or take it more often than advised. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel dizzy after taking this medicine. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase dizziness and low blood pressure. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially blood pressure medicines, heart medicines, and antidepressants. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially dizziness and low blood pressure. They should start with a lower dose and be monitored closely. Falls are a risk if dizziness occurs.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It should only be used if clearly needed. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, this medicine may be used to relieve spasms, but only under medical supervision. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine. It may interact with certain medications used during dental procedures, such as sedatives. No major precautions are typically needed, but always disclose your medication list.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your digestive system.
🥗
Eat small, frequent meals to prevent overloading your stomach.
😴
Avoid trigger foods that worsen your spasms, such as spicy or fatty foods.
💧
Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing to reduce stress.
🧘
Stay physically active with low-impact exercises like walking or swimming.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to help your body recover.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise immediately after taking this medicine if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. Listen to your body and rest if needed. Gentle stretching and walking are usually safe.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation.
Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Limit gas-producing foods if you have bloating.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It may also cause dry mouth, so keep water handy. Most people can continue their normal activities with caution.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if you experience severe side effects such as fast heartbeat, fainting, allergic reactions, or yellowing of the eyes. Do not stop taking it abruptly if you have been on it for a long time without consulting your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine should be under medical supervision. It is generally well tolerated, but prolonged use may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, low blood pressure, and rarely liver problems. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be advised if used for extended periods. Do not use it for longer than prescribed without consulting your doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Heat therapy

Applying a heating pad to the abdomen can help relax muscles and relieve cramps.

Evidence: Well-established
Peppermint oil

Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules may help with IBS-related spasms.

Evidence: Moderate
Probiotics

May improve gut health and reduce spasms in some individuals.

Evidence: Limited

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. You can receive vaccinations while taking this medicine, but inform your healthcare provider.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually, but consult your doctor for specific advice. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Check local customs regulations regarding prescription medicines before you travel.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with severe menstrual cramps
She was prescribed this medicine for dysmenorrhea. She took it as directed and noticed significant relief within an hour. She experienced mild dry mouth but it was manageable. She learned to take it at the first sign of cramps for best effect.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine early in the course of pain can provide better relief. Mild side effects like dry mouth are common and usually temporary.
👤 A 50-year-old man with biliary colic
He experienced severe upper abdominal pain after a fatty meal. In the emergency room, he was given this medicine and felt relief within 30 minutes. He was advised to avoid fatty foods and follow up with a gastroenterologist.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can provide rapid relief from biliary spasms, but underlying conditions like gallstones need further evaluation and dietary changes.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after you take it.

Q: Can I take it on an empty stomach?

A: It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor. Consult your doctor for advice.

Q: Can I take it with paracetamol?

A: There is no known major interaction between this medicine and paracetamol. However, always consult your doctor before combining medicines.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for drot 40mg injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Drotaverine is a general painkiller.
    Fact: Drotaverine is not a general painkiller. It specifically relieves smooth muscle spasms and is not effective for headaches, muscle aches, or fever.
  • Myth: Drotaverine can be taken for any stomach pain.
    Fact: Drotaverine is only for spasmodic pain. It should not be used for pain caused by conditions like appendicitis or bowel obstruction without medical evaluation.
  • Myth: Drotaverine is safe to take without a prescription.
    Fact: Drotaverine is a prescription medicine. It should only be taken when prescribed by a doctor.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Drotaverine 40 mg tablet
  • Drotaverine hydrochloride 40 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Drotin
  • Drotin-M
  • Drotikind
  • Drotaverine

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Drotaverine","class":"PDE4 inhibitor","main_use":"Smooth muscle spasm","onset":"30-60 min","duration":"4-6 hours"},{"medicine":"Mebeverine","class":"Musculotropic antispasmodic","main_use":"IBS","onset":"1-2 hours","duration":"4-6 hours"},{"medicine":"Dicyclomine","class":"Anticholinergic","main_use":"IBS, cramps","onset":"1-2 hours","duration":"4-6 hours"}]

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