Dicyclomine (dicyclomine hydrochloride) is an antispasmodic used to relieve cramping and spasms of the gastrointestinal tract.
Below is a general “ingredients” list for the most common oral forms you’ll find in pharmacies. Exact excipients can differ from one brand or manufacturer to another, so it’s always safest to check the packaging or the drug’s label for your particular product.
| Form | Active Ingredient | Typical Inactive Excipients (common examples) | Notes |
|------|-------------------|----------------------------------------------|-------|
| 30 mg tablets (generic) | 30 mg dicyclomine hydrochloride | • Microcrystalline cellulose (binder)
• Lactose monohydrate (filler)
• Magnesium stearate (lubricant)
• Povidone‑K30 (binder)
• Pregelatinized starch (coating agent)
• FD&C Red No. 40 or similar colorant (optional) | Some manufacturers use anhydrous lactose; others use a different sugar or starch. |
| 30 mg tablets (brand – e.g., Dicyclokil®) | 30 mg dicyclomine hydrochloride | • Microcrystalline cellulose
• Lactose
• Magnesium stearate
• Povidone
• Starch
• Colorant (e.g., FD&C Red 40) | The exact amounts are proprietary, but the excipients listed are typical. |
| Liquid solution (e.g., 10 mg/5 mL) | 2 mg dicyclomine HCl per 5 mL (≈10 mg/mL) | • Water for injection
• Propylene glycol (solvent)
• Glycerin (viscosity enhancer)
• Sodium benzoate (preservative)
• Flavoring agent (e.g., orange or grape)
• Colorant (e.g., FD&C Blue No. 1) | The concentration and excipients can vary; always read the label. |
| Extended‑release capsules (rare) | 30 mg dicyclomine HCl | • Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (matrix)
• Lactose
• Magnesium stearate
• Silicon dioxide (flow aid) | Designed to release over several hours. |
Key points to keep in mind
1. Active ingredient: The pharmacologically active compound is dicyclomine hydrochloride. The dose in tablets is usually 30 mg, while liquid preparations vary (e.g., 10 mg/mL).
2. Variability among brands: Even within the same therapeutic class, manufacturers may use slightly different excipients (e.g., different fillers, binders, or colorants). The FDA does not require identical excipients for generics, only that the overall product meet safety, efficacy, and quality standards.
3. Allergy or intolerance concerns:
- Lactose can be problematic for people with lactose intolerance or galactosemia.
- Magnesium stearate and povidone are generally well tolerated, but rare sensitivities exist.
- Colorants (FD&C Red 40, Blue 1, etc.) and preservatives (sodium benzoate) may trigger allergies or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
4. Reading the label: If you need the exact formulation for a specific product (e.g., because of allergies, dietary restrictions, or drug interactions), check the “Ingredients” section of the packaging or the Drug Facts label. For a deeper dive, the FDA’s Drug Label Database (drugs.fda.gov) provides full excipient lists for both brand‑name and generic drugs.
5. Regulatory status: Dicyclomine is a prescription medication in the United States. Over‑the‑counter availability may exist in other countries (e.g., in certain European markets) with different excipient profiles.
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Bottom line: The active ingredient in dicyclomine products is dicyclomine hydrochloride; the inactive ingredients (excipients) are usually microcrystalline cellulose, lactose, magnesium stearate, povidone, starch, and possibly a colorant or preservative. Exact excipient composition depends on the manufacturer and formulation type, so always consult the specific product’s label or the FDA drug database for the most accurate information.