Neostigmine belongs to a class of medications called central nervous system agents inhibiting an enzyme acetylcholinesterase to slow down the breakdown of a neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Neostigmine is used for treating myasthenia gravis, neuromuscular disorders and postoperative urinary retention.
Neostigmine is injected through the veins and muscle or under the skin as neostigmine methylsulphate.
Myasthenia gravis
Newborn
Intramuscular injection: The initial dose is 0.1 mg followed by 0.05-0.25 mg or 0.03 mg/kg every 2-4 hours.
Child below 12 years of age
Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection: 0.2-0.5 mg repeated at appropriate intervals.
Adult
Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection: 0.5-2.5 mg repeated at appropriate intervals to a total daily dose of 5-20 mg.
Paralytic ileus and postoperative urinary retention
Child
Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection: 0.125-1 mg.
Adult
Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection: 0.5-2.5 mg when needed.
Reversal of neuromuscular blockade
Child and adult
Intravenous injection: 0.05-0.07 mg/kg as IV bolus over 60 seconds.
Common dosing schedule:
Neostigmine injections are prescribed in institutions by the physicians.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Neostigmine may interact with:
Neostigmine may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Neostigmine is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Neostigmine in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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