Pyridostigmine and Upset Stomach: What Users Say

• Anonymous
• September 16, 2021

For Myasthenia Gravis "I was recently diagnosed with myasthenia gravis. I get double vision, droopy eyelids, muscle weakness, and muscle fatigue. I started on Mestinon 60 mg 3 x a day and 25 mg prednisolone and tapered down 5 mg every week. It worked, and I felt so much energy, but then my medication changed to Mestinon Timespan 180 mg, and it caused me very painful stomach cramps and excess flatulence and diarrhea. For 1 month, I hoped my body would get used to it, but I couldn't handle it anymore. I told my doctor, and she said to take half a tablet 1 x a day, and so far no bad side effects and only mild stomach cramps. My MG hasn't returned. I make sure to eat with the medicine and drink lots of water."

• ran...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• October 3, 2021

For Myasthenia Gravis "I started taking Mestinon when I was first diagnosed in 1999. However, in 2004, I had a thyroidectomy, and I feel a lot better. I still take 6 pills a day and 2 Imuran pills, but I am doing almost 100% better than I was before the surgery. If I don't eat enough, my stomach will cramp badly, so I try to coat my stomach to prevent it. I can also tell when it's time for a dosage as well. Before the surgery, I couldn't get dressed, drive on the highway (could not see the highway signs), drive at night, the lights hurt my eyes, and I was very weak. I had to take family medical leave from work."

• Hil...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• February 27, 2023

For Myasthenia Gravis "I have been taking Mestinon for 2 years for generalized myasthenia gravis. I take 30 mg three times a day. Unfortunately, I have severe diarrhea, stomach cramping, and other side effects including muscle cramping. I take Imodium, but sometimes it doesn’t work. I eat only rice, toast, and tea. I wish there was a better medication for MG with less side effects."

• Joh...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 22, 2017

For Myasthenia Gravis "Medicine works well. I do experience muscle cramps, stomach aches, and muscle twitching at times. Blurred vision occasionally. Overall, satisfied with results."