Butacid

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Butacid

This section provides a concise, authoritative definition of Butacid (Hyoscine Butylbromide), establishing its composition, pharmacological classification, and fundamental purpose in line with official medicinal standards.

Property Description
Active ingredient Hyoscine Butylbromide
Form Tablets (Oral), Solution for Injection (Parenteral)
Pharmacological class Antispasmodic agent, Anticholinergic drug
General purpose Relief of cramps/spasms in the smooth muscle
Origin Semi-synthetic compound (Tropane alkaloid derivative)

Defining Butacid: The Anticholinergic Class and Composition

Butacid is a medicine containing the single active substance, Hyoscine Butylbromide, which is classified as an antispasmodic agent with powerful anticholinergic properties. The substance is also known chemically as Scopolamine Butylbromide and is a semi-synthetic compound derived from the naturally occurring tropane alkaloid, scopolamine. The modification into a quaternary ammonium derivative ensures the compound is highly polar, which restricts its movement across the blood-brain barrier, thereby focusing its therapeutic action primarily on the peripheral smooth muscles. This specific action profile is characterized by its focused effect on the autonomic nervous system.

Butacid's Purpose: Targeting Painful Muscle Spasms

The core function and general purpose of Hyoscine Butylbromide is to resolve painful, involuntary contractions known as visceral spasms in the gastrointestinal, biliary, and urinary tracts. It achieves this by acting as a muscarinic receptor antagonist, blocking the nerve signals that stimulate excessive smooth muscle tightening. The substance is used for the symptomatic treatment of abdominal cramping and pain. The medicine helps ease discomfort by providing localized smooth muscle relaxation at the source of the spasm.

Physical Forms: Tablets and Injection Solution

As a single-ingredient product, Butacid is commercially formulated into two distinct dosage forms to suit different needs: tablets intended for oral use and a sterile solution for injection contained within ampoules for parenteral administration. These preparations allow the drug, containing its active compound and either solid excipients or an aqueous base, to be delivered effectively, either for oral self-management or via injection for rapid action in acute, severe episodes of spasm. The availability of these two primary forms is a differentiating factor that defines the medicine's versatility in clinical practice.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO Essential Medicines List (EML)

What side effects are possible with Butacid?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for Butacid (Phenylbutazone) is primarily defined by the risk of severe, potentially life-threatening adverse reactions, which has led to its strict restriction in human therapeutic use. The information below reflects the documented safety characteristics as classified by government regulatory authorities.

Adverse Reaction Scope and Systems

The most significant and serious adverse reactions are classified across several major System-Organ Classes:

  • Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: This includes the risk of severe hematologic toxicity such as agranulocytosis and aplastic anemia.
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: Documented risks include gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding, and perforation.
  • Hepatobiliary Disorders: Serious reactions include jaundice and reports of fatal hepatitis.
  • Renal and Urinary Disorders: These cover dose-dependent renal decompensation and potential for acute renal failure.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Risk Factors

Adverse effects are not consistently classified using standard frequency terms (e.g., 'common', 'rare') across all regulatory documents, but are generally highlighted by severity. The most serious adverse reactions requiring immediate attention are the severe blood dyscrasias, gastrointestinal complications, and fatal hepatic reactions.

Safety Considerations and Restrictions

The drug's safety profile mandates specific patient limitations and monitoring requirements:

  • Population Restrictions: Elderly patients are at an increased risk for adverse renal reactions and fluid retention. The medication is generally not recommended or contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.
  • Exposure-Related Patterns: The risk of developing gastrointestinal ulcers, blood dyscrasias, and kidney damage is documented to increase with prolonged use. Frequent laboratory monitoring, particularly blood counts, is required during the initial phase of treatment.
  • Contraindications: The use of Butacid is restricted in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as blood dyscrasias, severe cardiac, renal, or hepatic dysfunction, and uncontrolled hypertension.

This regulatory structure frames the medication's use around mandatory risk mitigation and careful selection of appropriate patients.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory documents define the overdose profile of Butacid (Hyoscine Butylbromide) based on an exaggeration of its anticholinergic properties, which requires immediate medical attention.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Symptoms and clinical signs formally listed in regulatory labeling include:

  • Cardiovascular: Fast heart rate (tachycardia).
  • Ocular/Visual: Transient visual disturbances.
  • Neurological: Slight drowsiness; rarely reported confusion, agitation, or hallucinations following parenteral administration.
  • Gastrointestinal: Decreased movement in the digestive tract (inhibition of GI motility).
  • Other: Dry mouth, reddening of the skin (flushing), and difficulty passing urine (urinary retention).

Serious Outcomes and Emergency Action

Regulators document that an overdose may lead to rare, severe outcomes such as coma, respiratory paralysis, and Cheyne-Stokes respiration. If any symptoms of overdose are experienced, you must tell your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.

For severe, life-threatening symptoms, including respiratory distress or loss of consciousness, official regulatory instructions require seeking immediate medical attention by going to Accident and Emergency at your nearest hospital.

Officially Described Management

Official labeling specifies management steps, including the use of parasympathomimetics as an antidote to treat symptoms, gastric lavage with activated charcoal for oral overdose, and intubation and artificial respiration for respiratory paralysis.

Therapeutic Uses of Butacid

What Butacid Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Butacid (generic name Phenylbutazone) is a medication used for managing pain and inflammation related to the musculoskeletal system. While its use in human medicine has been severely restricted or withdrawn in many countries, the therapeutic areas of pain and inflammation remain relevant to its approved uses.

Targeted Symptomatic Support

Butacid is commonly used in clinical settings that involve acute or disruptive symptom patterns where additional symptomatic support is needed for symptoms related to physical discomfort. The medication may assist with reducing symptoms of increased physiological activity, such as localized heat, swelling, and pronounced pain. This focus on strong symptomatic relief is applicable in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, including acute attacks of gout and certain rheumatoid disorders.

This treatment supports the easing of symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, helping to improve day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods. When symptoms become more noticeable, this temporary assistance assists with maintaining functional stability when symptoms interfere with routine activities.


Quick Fact: Relief for Pronounced Pain and Swelling

Butacid is relevant for easing discomfort in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MeSH overview of Phenylbutazone

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility and Contraindications for Butacid (Phenylbutazone)

Official regulatory documents define strict exclusions for the use of Butacid (Phenylbutazone), reflecting its highly restricted status primarily in veterinary medicine. Eligibility is determined mainly by the absence of severe pre-existing conditions, as mandated by health authorities.

Absolute Contraindicated Populations

Population/Condition Restriction Status
History of blood dyscrasia Contraindicated
Known hypersensitivity to NSAIDs Contraindicated
Cardiac, hepatic, or renal disease Contraindicated
Risk of gastrointestinal ulceration Contraindicated

Age and Physiological Restrictions

The medicine is formally contraindicated for use in cats and certain food-producing animals. In the human context, use in children is considered inadequately studied. Furthermore, administration is not established as safe during pregnancy and is generally avoided while lactating.

For use in animals, subjects at the extremes of age—including those under six weeks of age and aged animals—require a reduced dosage and special clinical management, as their use involves additional regulatory risk. The medicine is also restricted when the patient is in a state of dehydration, hypovolaemia, or hypotension.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory information for Butacid (Phenylbutazone) identifies interactions across several medicinal product categories, with emphasis placed on avoiding or closely monitoring combinations that increase the risk of adverse effects.

Key Interacting Categories and Specific Medicines

Interaction Domain Example Interacting Medicinal Products Interaction-Related Restriction
Other NSAIDs and Steroids Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Corticosteroids, Salicylates (e.g., Acetylsalicylic Acid) Avoid or Closely Monitor to mitigate increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration or hemorrhage.
Anticoagulants Heparin Sodium, Vitamin K antagonists (e.g., Warfarin) Use with Caution due to a documented increase in the risk of bleeding and hemorrhage.
Antidiabetic Agents Sulfonylureas May affect the pharmacokinetics and subsequent blood levels of these agents, requiring Close Monitoring of the patient's condition.
Other Agents Gentamicin, Furosemide Co-administration has been reported to alter the rate and extent of elimination for certain drugs, such as some anti-infectives and diuretics.

Interaction Structure and Classification

Interactions are officially classified by the resulting clinical significance, which defines the required action. Combinations with other anti-inflammatory analgesics or anticoagulants are classified as highly clinically significant and should generally be avoided unless used under special circumstances and with comprehensive patient monitoring. The overall interaction profile mandates strict regulatory control over co-administration to manage the increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and bleeding.

Mechanism of Action

The Core Mechanism of Butacid (Hyoscine Butylbromide)

Peripheral Antagonism of Muscarinic Receptors

Butacid functions as a competitive antagonist, engaging directly with muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (M1–M5 subtypes) located on involuntary smooth muscle cells and peripheral nerve endings. This binding prevents the natural neurotransmitter, Acetylcholine (ACh), from activating the receptor. This molecular interaction initiates the cascade that reduces cholinergic signaling within the parasympathetic nervous system.

Cascade Leading to Smooth Muscle Relaxation

By preventing receptor activation, the drug interrupts the signal transduction pathway, which blocks the release of intracellular ionized calcium. Since calcium is essential for muscle contraction, inhibiting its release results in visceral smooth muscle relaxation and a reduction in hyper-motility (peristalsis). This mechanism modulates physiological processes involving cholinergic stimulation in the gut, biliary, and urinary tracts.

Structural Specificity and Peripheral Confinement

Due to its quaternary ammonium structure, Butacid is highly polar and unable to cross the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB). This chemical characteristic restricts the mechanism of action to the strictly peripheral system, concentrating its activity on the visceral organs by preventing access to the central nervous system.

Dosage and Administration Information

Instruction Map: How to use Butacid — Administration Guidelines


Administration Scope

Route of administration:

  • The medicine is administered via the oral route (tablets) or parenterally through Intravenous (IV), Intramuscular (IM), or Subcutaneous (SC) injection.

Dosing schedule:

  • Adult Oral Dose: 10 mg to 20 mg per dose.
  • Adult Parenteral Dose: 20 mg to 40 mg per injection.
  • Maximum Daily Dose (Parenteral): Should not exceed 100 mg.

Timing in relation to meals (if applicable):

  • Oral tablets may be taken with or without food.

Preparation requirements (if applicable):

  • The injection solution is for single use only. IV solutions may be diluted with standard vehicles such as 0.9% Sodium Chloride or 5% Glucose solution.

Age-group administration rules:

  • Children (6 to 12 years): The dose is 10 mg three times daily. Oral tablets are typically not recommended for children under 6 years.

Missed-dose rules:

  • Standard protocol involves skipping the missed dose and resuming the normal schedule; a double dose should not be taken.

Special procedural conditions:

  • IV injection must be administered slowly (over a minimum of 3 minutes). The IM route is restricted in patients concurrently taking anticoagulant drugs, requiring the SC or IV route instead. Oral tablets must be swallowed whole.

Instruction Classifications (High-Level)

Administration method type (oral / IV / topical / inhaled / etc.):

  • Oral and Parenteral (IV, IM, SC).

Frequency pattern (daily / weekly / as-needed, etc.):

  • Multiple times per day (Oral: up to four times daily) and Acute/As-needed (parenteral).

Regulatory basis:

  • International health standards and established clinical guidelines.

Use-context constraints:

  • Not intended for continuous daily use or for extended periods without medical investigation.

Resulting Procedural Structure

Step sequence:

  • The appropriate form (oral tablet or parenteral injection) is selected based on the required speed and context of use.
  • Dosing is strictly aligned with the 10 mg or 20 mg increments and must not exceed the specified daily maximums.
  • Parenteral administration is carried out under professional supervision, with IV injection requiring a slow delivery over 3 minutes.

Connection to the overall use protocol (2–4 sentences): The administration route and specific dose range are linked to the context of use, reserving the parenteral route for supervised, rapid-action requirements and limiting the total daily and overall duration of treatment. This framework dictates the standardized procedure for how the medicine is prepared and delivered across approved adult and paediatric age groups.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Butacid (Hyoscine Butylbromide)

The evidence base for Butacid (Hyoscine Butylbromide) includes Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, which often inform regulatory decisions. Research is applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences related to the drug's role in addressing conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of muscle spasm.


Research Evidence for Acute Abdominal Cramping and Spasm

Research explored its use during periods of heightened symptom activity, such as acute episodes of abdominal cramping and colic. Studies focused on outcomes related to physical discomfort, primarily using standardized pain scales. Short-term trials reported how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, and research examined outcomes related to symptom intensity or variability. Some studies tracked the frequency of supplementary pain medication across study groups. Evidence quality varies across studies, and research provides limited insight into long-term changes following the observation period for acute episodes.


Studies on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)-Related Pain

In the context of conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes, such as IBS, research was evaluated in trials that explored short-term symptom changes. Studies focused on outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level, especially relating to recurrent abdominal pain and discomfort. Research describes patterns observed in the studies over periods typically lasting up to a few weeks, monitoring how symptoms evolved in the observed populations during that time. Certainty remains low for long-term use, as follow-up durations were limited.


Evidence Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

Comparative evidence is lacking in some areas, making it difficult to fully contextualize the findings against the full range of alternative management strategies. Limitations were observed in some studies due to differences in research methodology and how conditions were defined. Data for certain groups, including very young children and adults with complex comorbid conditions, remain insufficient in the primary evidence base. Subgroup findings are uncertain, as many trials were not designed to detect statistically significant outcomes within small, predefined patient subsets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Butacid (FAQ)


Q: How quickly does Butacid start working after you take it?

A: According to official product information, the onset of action is generally considered rapid. Some people may observe effects within 15 minutes, particularly with the injection form.


Q: What is the average duration of Butacid's effects?

A: Regulatory safety data indicates that the clinical effects of a dose typically last for approximately 4 to 6 hours. This duration is why the medication is often prescribed for use several times a day.


Q: Is it normal to feel a little dizzy after taking Butacid?

A: Dizziness is a documented side effect mentioned in product safety sheets. Along with temporary blurred vision, this is one of the effects that can sometimes occur when taking the medication.


Q: What kind of research has been done on Butacid's long-term safety?

A: Official information emphasizes that this product is not generally recommended for continuous daily use or for extended periods. Regulatory warnings state that chronic use requires medical investigation to determine the cause of the pain.


Q: How does Butacid help with inflammation specifically?

A: Butacid is primarily classified as an antispasmodic agent. Its mechanism is focused on relaxing the smooth muscles in the gut and urinary tract to relieve painful spasms. It is not known to be an anti-inflammatory drug; its primary action is to relieve pain by reducing smooth muscle spasms.


Q: Is Butacid available over the counter?

A: The availability of Butacid varies widely depending on the country. The injection form is typically prescription-only. In some regions, low-dose oral tablets may be available for general sale or classified as pharmacy-only medicines for specific uses like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) relief.


Q: Can Butacid affect my blood pressure?

A: A decrease in blood pressure has been reported as a documented side effect in some patients. Official warnings note that the medicine requires careful monitoring in individuals who have pre-existing high blood pressure (hypertension).


Q: Does Butacid interact with common cold medicines?

A: Caution is advised regarding interactions with other drugs that have anticholinergic properties. Certain cold remedies, such as some antihistamines, may intensify anticholinergic effects like dry mouth or blurred vision.


Q: Can Butacid interact with birth control pills?

A: Current regulatory assessments and medical guidelines generally state there are no documented clinically significant interactions between Butacid and oral contraceptive pills (OCPs).


Q: Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Butacid?

A: Regulatory documents state that the oral tablets can be taken with or without food. There are generally no specific dietary restrictions mentioned in the official product information.


Q: What should I do if I accidentally take a double dose of Butacid?

A: In cases of accidental double dose, the risk of overdose symptoms like a fast heart rate or visual disturbances increases. Immediate contact with a poison control center or emergency medical services is necessary.


Q: Can Butacid be crushed or split?

A: Regulatory documents state that oral tablets must be swallowed whole. Manipulation of the tablet by crushing or splitting is generally not permitted unless explicitly instructed by a prescriber.


Q: Why does Butacid sometimes cause heartburn?

A: Official safety data lists gastrointestinal adverse reactions. While 'heartburn' may not be explicitly listed, these reactions are related to the drug's action on the gut.


Q: Does Butacid come in different formulations, like gel or cream?

A: The drug is available in two officially approved dosage forms: oral tablets and a sterile solution for injection. Topical forms, such as gels or creams, are not part of the standard approved preparations.


Q: Are there generic versions of Butacid available?

A: Yes, the active ingredient Hyoscine Butylbromide is widely available under various brand names and as generic formulations from multiple pharmaceutical manufacturers worldwide.


Q: Is it better to take Butacid in the morning or at night?

A: The dosing schedule specifies taking the medication multiple times a day (e.g., three to four times daily) as needed. Official administration instructions do not specify a preferred time of day, such as morning or night.


Q: Can Butacid cause skin sensitivity to the sun?

A: Skin reactions like rash and redness have been reported as side effects. It is noted that some anticholinergic medications may increase sensitivity to the sun.


Q: Does alcohol consumption increase the risk of side effects from Butacid?

A: Official warnings indicate that the concurrent use of alcohol may increase the risk of certain side effects, such as drowsiness.


Q: Is Butacid commonly prescribed for general back pain?

A: Regulatory approved uses for Butacid are specific to relieving smooth muscle spasms in visceral organs like the gastrointestinal, biliary, and urinary tracts. It is not intended for general musculoskeletal back pain.


Q: Can Butacid worsen symptoms of asthma in some people?

A: Bronchospasm is a reported side effect. This is particularly noted in safety information for individuals with a history of asthma or allergies.


Q: What are the early warning signs of a serious reaction to Butacid?

A: Early signs that require immediate attention include fever, nausea, fainting, vomiting, or blood in the stool. Sudden or worsening severe abdominal pain is also a serious symptom noted in regulatory warnings.


Q: Can people with mild liver problems take Butacid?

A: Severe hepatic (liver) dysfunction is a contraindication. The medication is typically used with caution and requires specialized medical supervision in individuals with impaired hepatic function classified as mild to moderate.


Q: Why do some people experience fluid retention (swelling) when taking Butacid?

A: Fluid retention (swelling) is a documented risk, especially in older adults, and is highlighted in regulatory warnings.


Q: Is Butacid a prescription-only drug in most places?

A: The injectable solution is strictly prescription-only worldwide. The regulatory status of the oral tablets varies by country and pack size, being classified as prescription-only, pharmacy-only, or sometimes general sales list in different regions.


Q: Are there any known Butacid interactions with herbal supplements like St. John's Wort?

A: Caution is advised when taking Butacid with any herbal supplement. This is because many herbs, like St. John's Wort, are known to affect liver enzymes that process other medications.


How should Butacid be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Storage of Butacid (Hyoscine Butylbromide) is governed by specific regulatory conditions to maintain stability and shelf life.

Requirement Type Official Regulatory Statement
Temperature Constraint Store at controlled room temperature, typically mathbf15 C to mathbf30 C, and do not exceed mathbf30 C.
Protection The injection solution must be protected from light; keep the ampoules in the outer carton.
Child Safety It is mandatory to KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
Expiry Date The medicine must not be used after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
Disposal Dispose of unused product and waste material in accordance with local regulations, avoiding disposal via wastewater or household waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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