Drugs that enhance neuromuscular transmission (Formulary: Neuromuscular)

Neostigmine, pyridostigmine and immunosuppressants, eg prednisolone (Corticosteroids), azathioprine (Drugs affecting the immune response), are used to treat myasthenia gravis, whereas edrophonium is used in the diagnosis.

PYRIDOSTIGMINE

Important: Therapy notes

  • Gastro-intestinal side-effects are common and can be treated with the antimuscarinic propantheline bromide (non-Formulary).

Important: Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Tablets 60mg

Dosage:

By mouth, 30 to 120mg at suitable intervals throughout day. Doses exceeding 360mg daily should only be prescribed in consultation with a specialist.  

EDROPHONIUM

Important: Therapy notes

  • Stock is held in Raigmore Hospital emergency drug cupboard.

Important: Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Injection 10mg/mL unlicensed (s)

NEOSTIGMINE

Important: Therapy notes

Important: Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Injection 2·5mg/mL (s)

Editorial Information

Document Id: F281