Drotaverine is an oral medicine belonging to the category of antispasmodics and is used to treat the following conditions: 

1. Abdominal pain due to stomach or intestinal spasms 
2. Menstrual pain (period cramps) 
3. Biliary colic (pain due to gallbladder stones) 
4. Renal colic (pain due to kidney stones) 
5. Uterine spasms   

1. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time each day. 
2. Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better. 
3. If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. 

More Common

1. Nausea 
2. Vomiting 
3. Dizziness 
4. Headache 
5. Constipation         

Less common 

1. Low blood pressure 
2. Palpitations (fast heartbeat) 
3. Sweating 
4. Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, breathing difficulty)    

Drotaverine works by relaxing tight muscles inside the stomach, intestines, uterus, and urinary tract. When these muscles suddenly tighten, they cause cramps and pain. This medicine helps those muscles loosen and relax, which reduces pain and discomfort.  

Allergy/Hypercreativity

If you are allergic to drotaverine or any ingredient in this medicine, you should avoid it because it may cause serious allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, or breathing difficulties. Seek medical help immediately if these occur.

Liver Problems

If you have liver disease or a history of liver problems, inform your doctor before taking this medicine because it may worsen your condition or require dose adjustment.

Kidney Problems

If you have kidney issues, tell your doctor before starting this medicine because the drug may accumulate in the body and increase the risk of side effects.

Low Blood Pressure

If you already have low blood pressure, use this medicine only after discussing with your doctor because it may further lower your blood pressure and cause dizziness or fainting.

Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor before taking drotaverine because its safety during pregnancy has not been fully established. 

Avoid taking Drotaverine with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:

Taking it after meals may help reduce stomach discomfort. There are no major food restrictions, but alcohol should be avoided as it may increase dizziness or lower blood pressure. Always follow your doctor’s advice while using this medicine. 

1. The medicine should be stored at room temperature.  
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture.
3. Keep away from the reach of children. 

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

Drotaverine: (1Z)-1-[(3,4-diethoxyphenyl)methylidene]-6,7-diethoxy-3,4-dihydro-2H-isoquinoline 

Daily Dose

Take Drotaverine exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.

Overdose

Do not take more than 80 mg/day of drotaverine, as exceeding this amount may lead to overdose. Overdose symptoms can include severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and in serious cases, stomach bleeding, kidney problems, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Drotaverine 80 mg is an antispasmodic medicine used to relieve pain caused by muscle spasms. It is commonly prescribed for abdominal cramps, menstrual pain, intestinal spasms, and pain due to kidney or gallstones. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the stomach, intestines, urinary tract, and uterus. This happens because it blocks an enzyme called phosphodiesterase (PDE), which reduces muscle contractions and helps relieve cramping pain. 

Most people tolerate Drotaverine well, but some may experience side effects such as nausea, dizziness, headache, low blood pressure, or a fast heartbeat. Serious side effects are rare but require medical attention. During pregnancy, Drotaverine may sometimes be prescribed for uterine spasms or abdominal pain, but it should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. It is important not to exceed more than 80mg/day as complications such as severe dizziness, low blood pressure, or heart rhythm problems can occur.    

What is Drotaverine tablet used for? 

Drotaverine is used to relieve muscle spasms and cramps. It helps relax smooth muscles and reduces pain in conditions stomach cramps, menstrual pain, kidney stone pain, gallbladder pain, and intestinal spasms. 

 Is Drotaverine safe during pregnancy? 

Drotaverine is sometimes prescribed during pregnancy for uterine spasms or abdominal pain. However, it should only be taken under medical supervision. Do not self-medicate during pregnancy. 

How does Drotaverine work? 

Drotaverine works by relaxing smooth muscles. It inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase (PDE), which helps reduce muscle contractions. This relaxation reduces pain caused by spasms. 

What are the common side effects of Drotaverine? 

Drotaverine may cause mild side effects such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and weakness. 

1. PubChem. Drotaverine [Internet]. Nih.gov. PubChem; 2026 [cited 2026 Feb 26]. Available from 
2. Drotaverine [Internet]. go.drugbank.com. Available from