Buscopan (hyoscine butylbromide) syrup may be used for babies over 1 month old in some regions, but it is not recommended for continuous daily use or extended periods without investigating the cause of abdominal pain[9][11].
Common side effects in infants and young children include:
- Tachycardia (racing pulse)
- Dry mouth
- Abnormal sweating
- Skin reactions such as itching
Rare but serious side effects and contraindications are:
- Allergic reaction to hyoscine butylbromide or any ingredient of Buscopan
- Myasthenia gravis (a condition causing weak muscles)
- Mechanical stenosis in the gastrointestinal tract
- Paralytic or obstructive ileus (bowel blockage)
- Megacolon
- Narrow angle glaucoma
- Porphyria
- Enlarged prostate
- Fever
- Tachycardia (pre-existing)
In babies, any severe or persistent abdominal pain should be assessed by a healthcare professional before Buscopan is used[11]. Buscopan is not suitable for infants with certain medical conditions (see above) and should only be given under medical advice.
In some countries, Buscopan is not recommended for children under 6 years of age or below specific age limits depending on the formulation (for example, tablets are not suitable for children under 6 years)[3][9]. Always follow local medical guidance and dosing recommendations for infants and children.