Treatment and relief of symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS); treatment of symptoms related to functional disorders of the biliary tract.

Pinaverium is a calcium antagonist, which inhibits the calcium influx by blocking the voltage-dependent calcium channel at the smooth muscle cell of the GI tract resulting in a spasmolytic effect in the gut. It possesses a high degree of selectivity for the intestinal smooth muscle.

Pinaverium is poorly absorbed(1-10%) due to its highly polar quaternary ammonium group and its high molecular weight; the absolute bioavailability is very low(less than 1%), 98% plasma protein bound; Time to peak: 0.5 to 1 hour; Elimination T1/2: close to 1.5 hrs.

known hypersensitivity to pinaverium or any of the excipients.

Not established.

Avoided.

epigastric pain and/or fullness, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal distension, dry mouth, headache, and drowsiness, vertigo.

Oral: Initial: 50 mg 3 times/day; dose may be increased up to 100 mg 3 times/day. Do not crush or chew tablet. It should be taken with a glass of water during meals or snacks. The tablet should not be swallowed when in the lying position or just before bedtime.