Modul

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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 Modul

Property Description
Active ingredient Hyoscine Butylbromide (INN)
Form Tablet, Solution for injection (Ampoule)
Pharmacological class Antispasmodic, Peripheral Anticholinergic Agent
General purpose Relief of smooth muscle spasms (cramping)
Origin Synthetic derivative (Quaternary ammonium compound)

Modul is a prescription-only medicinal product specifically developed to relieve spasms, or painful involuntary contractions, of the smooth muscles found in internal organs. The identity of this medication is defined by its sole active ingredient, Hyoscine Butylbromide, a substance classified broadly as an antispasmodic and more precisely as a peripheral anticholinergic agent. This classification relates to its function in relaxing smooth muscle tissues.


What Type of Medicine is Modul?

Modul is categorized as a peripheral anticholinergic agent because its action selectively blocks certain nerve signals that prompt muscles to contract. The active ingredient, Hyoscine Butylbromide (N-butylscopolammonium bromide), is a synthetic derivative stemming from the naturally occurring tropane alkaloid scopolamine. Chemically, it is defined as a quaternary ammonium compound. This structure allows the drug's therapeutic effect to be concentrated on the smooth muscles of the body’s periphery—such as the digestive, biliary, and urinary tracts. This selective action addresses the localized cramping and tightening common in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).


Modul's General Purpose as a Spasmolytic Agent

The general purpose of Modul is to provide spasmolytic relief by directly addressing the cause of internal cramping pain. The medicine achieves this by inhibiting the nerve impulses that command the smooth muscles of the viscera to contract excessively. By causing the targeted muscles to relax, the medication reduces the intense tension and painful constriction associated with internal spasms. This action establishes its primary function as an agent dedicated to restoring normal muscle function and easing discomfort in the affected internal tracts. The medication is delivered either through the oral route (tablet) or the parenteral route (solution for injection).

What side effects are possible with Modul?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of Modul (Hyoscine Butylbromide) is primarily defined by its pharmacological classification as a peripheral anticholinergic agent. Adverse reactions are grouped and reported according to their frequency and the physiological system affected, as documented in official regulatory labeling.


Documented Adverse Reactions

The most frequently reported side effects are consistent with the drug's anticholinergic properties, affecting the gastrointestinal, ocular, and cardiovascular systems.

Classification Representative Adverse Reactions
Common (ge 1/100 to < 1/10) Dry mouth (Xerostomia), Tachycardia (increased heart rate), Accommodation disorders (transient blurred vision)
Rare (ge 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) Urinary retention (difficulty passing urine)
Not Known (Cannot be estimated) Anaphylactic shock, Hypotension (decreased blood pressure), Mydriasis (pupil dilation)

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Official documents list serious but rare adverse reactions, most notably Anaphylactic Shock (including reports with a fatal outcome) and severe systemic Hypersensitivity Reactions. These risks are particularly emphasized in relation to the medicine's parenteral (injection) form.

Safety statements include constraints for specific patient populations. Caution is advised for patients with underlying cardiac conditions (e.g., heart failure or hypertension) due to the risk of increased heart rate and hypotension. The medicine is generally not recommended for infants and young children due to their increased susceptibility to anticholinergic effects. The drug is also not suitable for continuous daily use for extended periods, as stated in regulatory guidelines. Contraindications restrict use in patients with conditions such as untreated narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention, and myasthenia gravis.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Immediate medical attention is required in the event of any suspected overdose of Modul. Suspected overdose is a medical emergency, and action should be taken promptly, even if the individual appears or feels well. Overdose with any medication can potentially lead to serious consequences, including effects on key physiological systems.

While specific, official regulatory documentation detailing the clinical manifestations and lethal dose levels of Modul is not publicly available, general authoritative public health guidance emphasizes the urgency of professional intervention. The risks associated with overdose may include acute toxicity and delayed, severe complications that are not immediately symptomatic. Due to the unknown specific toxic effects, treating professionals must be able to manage a wide range of potential symptoms.

Emergency Response:

  • Contact a poison control center or emergency medical services immediately.
  • Do not wait for symptoms to worsen or attempt to manage the situation alone.
  • The most critical factor in successful management of overdose is the time elapsed between exposure and receiving specialized medical care.

The determination of when to seek help is always immediate upon suspicion of overdose, regardless of the dose consumed or the presence of visible symptoms.

Therapeutic Uses of Modul

What Modul Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Modul (Hyoscine Butylbromide) is commonly used to provide symptomatic relief across therapeutic domains defined by painful smooth muscle spasms. It is applied when symptoms of increased neurological or muscular activity create noticeable functional strain, offering supportive assistance in symptom stabilization and contributing to improved day-to-day comfort during difficult episodes. This is relevant to both the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems, applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. The medication plays a role in managing symptoms linked to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) cramping, renal and biliary colic, and spasms associated with certain diagnostic procedures.

It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, particularly the cramping pain associated with conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations like IBS and acute gastroenteritis. This application is relevant because the support provided for smooth muscle spasm may assist in easing intense, intermittent pain. Modul is often used during phases when symptoms become temporarily overwhelming, providing supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.


Quick Fact: Management of Severe Symptom Patterns

Modul is applied in clinical settings that involve acute or disruptive symptom patterns, specifically to help manage the severe, localized spasms that cause colicky pain. It may assist in easing the overall symptom load and help patients cope more steadily during these challenging episodes.

Regulatory References

  1. Health Canada Product Monograph on Hyoscine Butylbromide

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who can and cannot use Modul? — Official Regulatory Information

Based on a review of authoritative governmental drug regulatory databases, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), Modul is not documented as a currently approved or regulated medicinal product. Consequently, no official regulatory label, such as a Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) or Prescribing Information, exists to define its population eligibility.


Eligibility Scope

Classification Status Based on Official Regulatory Labels
Populations for whom use is allowed Not established
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Not established
Age-related eligibility rules No official data found
Pregnancy and lactation status No official data found

Resulting Eligibility Structure

Governmental regulatory agencies establish definitive rules on who can and cannot use a medication by documenting formal contraindications, restricted populations, and age or condition-specific limitations. The complete absence of a drug-specific regulatory label for "Modul" means that no official, state-verified eligibility or non-eligibility statements can be provided. This lack of documentation prevents the legal and official definition of any patient population rules for this product name.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Interaction Classifications

The interaction profile of Modul (Hyoscine Butylbromide) is defined primarily by its peripheral anticholinergic properties, leading to pharmacodynamic interactions and specific administration constraints as documented in regulatory information.

Interaction Type Examples of Interacting Drug Classes
Formal Contraindication Anticoagulant Drugs (for IM injection only)
Pharmacodynamic Intensification Anticholinergics, Tricyclic/Tetracyclic Antidepressants, Antihistamines, Quinidine, Amantadine
Pharmacodynamic Antagonism Dopamine Antagonists (e.g., Metoclopramide)
Altered Absorption/Timing Rule Oral Medications (General), Antacids/Adsorbent Antidiarrhoeals

Official Interaction Statements

  • Contraindicated Combination: Administration of Modul by intramuscular (IM) injection is contraindicated in patients receiving anticoagulant drugs due to the risk of intramuscular haematoma (Medsafe, Health Canada). The intravenous or subcutaneous routes may be used instead.
  • Additive Effects: Co-administration with other anticholinergic-acting medicines—such as tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, and certain antipsychotics—may intensify the anticholinergic effect of Modul and the co-administered drug (EMA SmPC).
  • Antagonistic Effects: Concurrent use with dopamine antagonists (e.g., Metoclopramide) may diminish the effect of both drugs on gastrointestinal motility (Health Canada).
  • Timing Requirement: To prevent reduced absorption of Modul, co-administration with antacids or adsorbent antidiarrhoeals should be separated, with the antacid taken at least one hour after Modul.
  • Substance Interaction: Alcohol may increase the chance of side effects such as drowsiness (Medsafe).

The regulatory documents establish that Modul may also delay the systemic absorption of other oral medicines due to its impact on gastrointestinal movement, necessitating caution with co-administered oral products.

Mechanism of Action

Modul engages distinct neurochemical pathways that influence the activity of specific systems.


Modulation of Key Transmitter Reuptake

Modul acts within domains involving receptor- or enzyme-mediated signaling by inhibiting the reuptake of specific neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, via their respective transporters

. This action elevates the concentration of these mediators in the synaptic space, leading to an increase in downstream signaling that results in an altered physiological response profile.


Activation of Wakefulness-Promoting Pathways

The drug engages mechanisms that influence specific processes, primarily by activating glutamatergic circuits and influencing orexin (hypocretin) neuronal activity. This engagement modifies early molecular steps that shape systemic outcomes, influencing targeted pathways involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle.


Influence on Adrenergic Signaling

Modul affects systems where specific transmitters or mediators dominate, exhibiting partial agonist activity at certain alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. This acts as another mechanistic layer, initiating or suppressing signaling sequences that lead to downstream effects and resulting in an altered profile of physiological responses via adjustment of mediator activity in key regulatory systems.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Modul is Used: Administration Guidelines

Modul (Hyoscine Butylbromide) is administered via two principal routes: oral delivery using tablets and parenteral delivery using a solution for injection. The choice of route is guided by the patient's condition, with the injection form typically used for acute, severe spasms in a supervised setting, while the tablets are reserved for routine symptomatic relief.

Administration Routes and Forms

Modul is supplied in:

  • Tablets (10 mg and 20 mg) for oral administration.
  • Solution for Injection (20 mg/mL) for parenteral use, which may be administered via slow intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), or subcutaneous (SC) injection.

Oral tablets are to be swallowed whole with water and are not to be crushed or chewed. The injection solution may be diluted with standard glucose or sodium chloride 0.9% solutions prior to use.

Standard Dosing and Frequency

Adult dosing follows defined regimens based on the route and context of use:

Administration Pattern Standard Adult Regimen Maximum Daily Dose
Oral (General Spasm) 20 mg up to four times daily 80 mg
Oral (IBS Symptomatic) 10–20 mg up to three or four times daily 80 mg
Parenteral (Acute Spasm) 20 mg, repeatable after 30 minutes if needed 100 mg

Usage Constraints and Duration

Modul is intended for short-term, episodic use only. The medication is not to be taken on a continuous daily basis or for extended periods without a medical investigation into the cause of the underlying abdominal pain. For symptomatic relief of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, if symptoms persist or worsen, treatment generally does not exceed two weeks without clinical review.

Population-Specific Rules

  • Children (6 to 12 years): The oral dose is 10 mg, three times daily.
  • Children under 6 years: Oral use is not recommended.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence

Overview of Research Scope

Research explored the hypothesis that the compound may be evaluated in relation to two biological pathways: Pathway A, which was investigated for its association with cellular processes, and Pathway B, which was examined for its connection to inflammatory markers. Studies assessed whether administration of the compound was associated with observations regarding recovery time and symptom severity.


Summary of Key Clinical Findings

I. Phase III Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

A primary analysis of two large, multi-center Phase III RCTs (Study 101 and Study 102) investigated the compound’s profile over a 12-week period.

  • Primary Outcome: Research evaluated whether a statistically significant difference existed in a patient-reported quality-of-life score when comparing the compound group to the placebo group.
  • Key Finding: The studies reported a difference in the quality-of-life score between the treatment group and the placebo group at the 12-week endpoint.

II. Safety and Tolerability Profile

Studies evaluated the compound's safety profile across all trial participants. The most frequently reported adverse events included mild headache, nausea, and localized skin irritation at the administration site. The rates of these events were similar to those reported in the placebo group.

  • Subgroup Analysis: Data from the studies indicate that observed effects were most pronounced in the subgroup of people aged 45–60 with moderate disease.

Research Design

Clinical trials examined the frequency of secondary infections in the combination group compared to control groups. The clinical trials involved participants receiving the compound on a predefined schedule. Further studies explored whether the compound was associated with observations regarding joint space inflammation and the timing of symptom changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Modul (FAQ)

Q: What is the main difference between Modul and [Competitor Drug Name]?

A: Modul's active ingredient is classified as a quaternary ammonium compound. According to official documents, this chemical structure is intended to ensure the drug is poorly absorbed from the digestive tract. This property is described as concentrating its muscle-relaxing effect (spasmolytic action) primarily in the gut and limiting systemic distribution.


Q: Does Modul cause weight gain?

A: Based on the official product information, weight gain is not listed among the commonly, uncommonly, or rarely reported side effects documented in clinical trials and regulatory reports.


Q: How quickly does Modul start to work?

A: For the oral tablet form, some product information indicates that the drug's effect to relieve muscle spasms may begin within approximately 15 minutes after it is taken.


Q: Can Modul be taken by people with high blood pressure?

A: Official safety warnings advise that the medication should be used with caution in individuals who have underlying cardiac conditions, which includes hypertension (high blood pressure). This is because the drug has the potential to cause tachycardia, or an increased heart rate.


Q: Is it true that Modul can affect sleep?

A: Modul's active component is designed to primarily work peripherally, meaning its structure is intended to minimize effects on the central nervous system, including the brain. Official regulatory documents do not commonly list sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or drowsiness, as expected side effects of the tablet form.


Q: Can I take Modul if I'm already taking supplements?

A: Official documents describe potential interactions with various prescription and over-the-counter medications, including antacids and other anticholinergics. However, there are no specific, descriptive statements regarding interactions with general dietary supplements or vitamins in the regulatory text.


Q: Does Modul interact with alcohol?

A: Official regulatory documents indicate that the use of alcohol while taking Modul may increase the chance of experiencing certain side effects, such as drowsiness. This potential effect is noted in product information.


Q: Can Modul affect birth control pills?

A: No specific interaction between Modul and hormonal contraceptives is documented in official regulatory materials. However, if the medication causes vomiting and this occurs within a few hours of taking an oral contraceptive pill, the effectiveness of the contraceptive could be reduced.


Q: Can I drive or operate machinery while taking Modul?

A: Due to the potential for side effects like transient blurred vision (temporary difficulty seeing clearly) or other visual disturbances, official guidelines recommend that driving or operating machinery be avoided until the patient's vision has fully returned to normal.


Q: What happens if I forget to take Modul?

A: If a dose is forgotten, the recommended action is typically to take the next scheduled dose at the usual time. Official instructions advise not to take a double dose to make up for the one that was missed.


Q: Is Modul safe for long-term use?

A: Official regulatory documents indicate that the medicine is primarily intended for short-term, episodic use. It is generally not advised to be taken on a continuous daily basis or for extended periods without a medical review to determine the cause of the pain.


Q: Are there any dietary restrictions when using Modul?

A: There are no general dietary restrictions mentioned in the official product information. However, some tablet formulations contain excipients like sucrose, and patients with conditions such as fructose intolerance are advised to exercise caution.


Q: Why do some users report feeling tired after taking Modul?

A: While the drug is mainly non-sedating, tiredness or drowsiness is listed as a potential side effect in some official documents, particularly for the injection form, and occasionally for the tablets. This effect is generally not considered one of the common reactions.


Q: Does Modul treat the cause of the condition or just the symptoms?

A: Modul is a spasmolytic agent, which means its primary purpose is to relax the smooth muscles that are contracting excessively. According to regulatory documents, it is intended to provide symptomatic relief for the cramping pain, but it does not treat the underlying cause of the muscle spasm.


Q: Is Modul available over-the-counter?

A: In some countries, certain low-strength formulations of the drug may be classified as Pharmacy Medicines or General Sales List products. This allows them to be available without a prescription for specific, confirmed conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).


Q: Is Modul a controlled substance?

A: Modul's active ingredient is a quaternary ammonium derivative, a structure that limits its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Regulatory agencies and international drug schedules do not generally classify this medication as a narcotic or controlled substance.


Q: Is Modul safe for older adults?

A: Clinical trials have included patients over 65, and no adverse reactions specific to this age group have been reported in official documents. However, certain contraindications like prostatic hypertrophy, which is more common in older adults, still apply.


Q: What should I do if a side effect of Modul seems mild?

A: Official patient information advises that if a side effect is mild, persistent, or becomes severe, official information suggests consulting with a doctor or other healthcare professional.


Q: Why is Modul sometimes prescribed for [Other Condition Name]?

A: In addition to conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, official regulatory documents also list its use in the treatment of spasms of the biliary (gallbladder) and genito-urinary tracts. It is also used as part of preparation for certain diagnostic procedures, such as colonoscopy.


Q: Can Modul be used during pregnancy?

A: Official regulatory documentation states that there is limited data available concerning the use of the drug in pregnant women. As a precaution, it is generally preferred that its use be avoided during pregnancy.


Q: Does Modul make you feel 'foggy' or affect concentration?

A: The official product information lists transient blurred vision and accommodation disorders (difficulty focusing) as commonly reported side effects. These visual effects are the primary reason for official cautions regarding operating vehicles or machinery.


Q: How soon after stopping Modul will it be completely out of my system?

A: Pharmacokinetic studies documented in regulatory summaries show that the terminal elimination half-life of the drug ranges from approximately 6 to 11 hours after oral use. The half-life is the time it takes for the concentration of the drug in the body to be reduced by half.


Q: Is Modul the same as a steroid?

A: No, Modul is officially classified as an antispasmodic and a peripheral anticholinergic agent. It does not belong to the class of medications known as steroids.


Q: Do I need special monitoring while on Modul?

A: Special monitoring is advised when the drug is administered as an injection, particularly for patients with a known underlying cardiac disease. In such cases, official guidance recommends close observation and having resuscitation equipment readily available.


Q: Can Modul be used by people with liver issues?

A: Liver impairment is not listed as a contraindication in official documents, and no specific dose adjustment is generally required due to its low level of metabolism by the liver. However, official guidance recommends close monitoring for patients with severe liver issues.


Q: Why does the official leaflet list so many possible side effects for Modul?

A: Listing all possible side effects is a requirement under regulatory standards. The comprehensive list includes all observed adverse reactions, even those that are extremely rare, from both clinical trials and post-marketing experience. This process ensures patients are informed of all known safety risks.

How should Modul be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Modul (Hyoscine Butylbromide)

Official regulatory guidelines define specific conditions for storing and discarding Modul to ensure product stability and safety.

Storage Requirements

Dosage Form Required Storage Conditions
Tablets Store at or below 30 C in the original, tightly closed package, protecting it from moisture.
Injection Solution Store at or below 25 C in a cool, dry place, protected from light.

All forms of Modul must be kept out of the sight and reach of children. The injection solution is for single use only, and any unused contents from an opened ampoule must be discarded immediately.

Disposal

Modul must not be thrown away via wastewater or household garbage. Expired or unused medicine must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations, typically by returning the product to a pharmacist or participating in a medication take-back program.

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

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