edrophonium Health Article

Generic name(s):

edrophonium

Brand name(s):

Enlon, Tensilon

What is the most important information I should know about edrophonium?

You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to edrophonium, or have a blockage in your intestines or obstructed urine flow.

Before you receive edrophonium, tell your doctor if you have asthma, a heart rhythm disorder, or if you are allergic to sulfites. Also tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Tell your caregivers at once if you have a serious side effect such as slow heart rate, chest pain, weak pulse, fainting, weak or shallow breathing, increased urination, seizures, or trouble swallowing.

Less serious side effects may occur (some of which can be expected as part of a positive test reaction to edrophonium) such as watery eyes, vision problems, changes in your voice, mild nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, weakness, or muscle twitching.

What is edrophonium?

Edrophonium is used as part of a medical test to help diagnose a muscle disorder called myasthenia gravis.

Edrophonium is sometimes used to reverse the effects of certain medications used to prevent muscle contractions during surgical procedures.

Edrophonium may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving edrophonium?

You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to edrophonium, or have certain conditions. Be sure your doctor knows if you have:

• a blockage in your intestines; or

• obstructed urine flow.

Before you receive edrophonium, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• asthma;

• a heart rhythm disorder; or

• if you are allergic to sulfites.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely receive edrophonium.

This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before you receive edrophonium. Do not receive this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is edrophonium given?

Edrophonium is given as an injection through a needle placed into a muscle or vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting as part of a medical test.

When used in diagnosing myasthenia gravis, edrophonium is given in small doses over 15 to 45 seconds. After each dose you will be observed for the expected reaction to this medication (muscle twitching, vision changes, increased muscle weakness, sweating, stomach cramps, nausea, and other symptoms). You may receive other medications to treat the reaction to edrophonium.

The test you are receiving may be repeated a second time.

Your specific edrophonium test may be performed in a different manner than described above.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since edrophonium is given by a healthcare professional, it is not likely that you will miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Tell your caregivers right away if you think you have received too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, slow heart rate, and increased salivation (drooling).

What should I avoid after receiving edrophonium?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity after you have been treated with edrophonium.