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Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets

Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets

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  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Relieves stomach cramps and IBS spasms fast
  • ✔️ Contains hyoscine butylbromide 10mg per tablet
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Acts locally in the gut with minimal systemic absorption
  • ✔️ No prescription required — available over the counter

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What Are Buscopan Cramps Tablets Used For?

 

If you've ever been doubled over with stomach cramps, you'll know how disruptive they can be. Buscopan cramps tablets are one of the most widely recognised over-the-counter antispasmodic medicines available in the UK, used to relieve painful abdominal cramps and spasms. Each tablet contains 10mg of hyoscine butylbromide, an active ingredient that targets the smooth muscle of the gut directly. Whether your cramps are linked to irritable bowel syndrome, menstrual pain, or general stomach spasm, Buscopan Cramps offers targeted relief without the need for a prescription. You can browse our full range of IBS and cramps treatments if you're looking for additional options alongside this product.

Stomach cramps affect millions of people in the UK at some point in their lives. According to the NHS, IBS alone affects up to one in five people at some stage, making antispasmodic medicines like this one a common first-line choice for managing day-to-day symptoms.

 

How Do Buscopan Cramps Tablets Work?

 

The active ingredient, hyoscine butylbromide, belongs to a class of medicines called antimuscarinics (also known as antispasmodics). It works by blocking muscarinic receptors in the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces involuntary muscle contractions — the very contractions that cause cramping pain.

  • Hyoscine butylbromide binds to muscarinic receptors in the gut wall
  • This blocks the nerve signals that trigger smooth muscle contraction
  • The gut muscle relaxes, reducing spasm and the associated pain
  • The drug acts locally in the gut and is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, which limits systemic side effects

Because it acts locally rather than centrally, it doesn't cause the drowsiness associated with some other antispasmodic medicines. That makes it a practical option for people who need relief during the working day.

 

Who Is Buscopan Cramps Suitable For?

 

Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over. They're particularly useful for people who experience recurrent cramping linked to a diagnosed condition, or occasional spasms with no identified cause. That said, if your symptoms are new or you haven't yet spoken to a doctor about them, it's worth getting a proper diagnosis first.

  • Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over with stomach cramps
  • People with a confirmed diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome
  • Women experiencing menstrual cramps (period pain)
  • Those seeking short-term relief from abdominal spasm without a prescription

 

How Do Buscopan Cramps Compare to Other Antispasmodics?

 

Feature Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets Mebeverine (Colofac 135mg)
Active ingredient Hyoscine butylbromide 10mg Mebeverine hydrochloride 135mg
Suitable age 12 years and over 18 years and over (OTC)
Mechanism Antimuscarinic antispasmodic Direct smooth muscle relaxant
UK OTC availability Yes Yes

 

How Should You Store Buscopan Cramps Tablets?

 

Store Buscopan cramps tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them in their original packaging and out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the pack — if in doubt, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. If you're managing multiple digestive health products, it's worth checking our indigestion treatments collection for complementary options.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Antispasmodic / IBS and stomach cramps
Active ingredient Hyoscine butylbromide 10mg
Mechanism of action Antimuscarinic — relaxes smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 years and over
Pack size 20 tablets
Strength 10mg per tablet
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Antimuscarinic antispasmodic
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets

 

What Is Buscopan Cramps and What Is It Used For?

 

Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets contain hyoscine butylbromide 10mg per tablet. This medicine is used to relieve the pain of stomach cramps, intestinal spasms, and the abdominal discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome. It is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning you can buy it without a prescription from pharmacies and supermarkets. It is not intended to treat the underlying cause of your symptoms — it provides symptomatic relief only. If your cramps are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as blood in your stool or unexplained weight loss, you should see your GP promptly.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Buscopan Cramps?

 

Before taking this medicine, read the following carefully. There are certain situations where Buscopan Cramps is not appropriate, and some medicines that may interact with it.

Do not take Buscopan Cramps if you:

  • Are allergic to hyoscine butylbromide or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • Have myasthenia gravis (a condition causing muscle weakness)
  • Have megacolon (an abnormal enlargement of the colon)
  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Have closed-angle glaucoma

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking if you have:

  • An enlarged prostate or difficulty passing urine
  • A rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia)
  • Any obstruction in your digestive tract

Medicines that may interact with Buscopan Cramps:

  • Antihistamines (e.g. chlorphenamine) — may increase anticholinergic effects
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline) — may enhance side effects
  • Amantadine — increased risk of anticholinergic side effects
  • Quinidine — may increase antimuscarinic effects
  • Metoclopramide — reduced effect of both medicines on gut motility

 

How Should You Use Buscopan Cramps?

 

Always take this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

  1. Take 2 tablets with a glass of water
  2. Repeat up to four times daily if needed
  3. Do not take more than 8 tablets (80mg) in any 24-hour period
  4. Swallow the tablets whole — do not crush or chew them
  5. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, stop taking and consult your GP
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum Daily Dose
Adults and children aged 12+ 2 tablets (20mg) Up to 4 times daily 8 tablets (80mg)
Children under 12 Not recommended

If you're also managing other digestive symptoms such as loose stools, you may find our diarrhoea treatments collection helpful alongside this product.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Buscopan Cramps?

 

Like all medicines, Buscopan Cramps can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most side effects are mild and related to the antimuscarinic action of hyoscine butylbromide.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Increased heart rate (tachycardia)

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Nausea
  • Flushing of the skin
  • Anaphylactic reaction (rare — seek emergency help immediately if this occurs)

Stop taking Buscopan Cramps and seek immediate medical attention if you develop a skin rash, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing. These could be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

 

How Should You Store Buscopan Cramps?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep in the original packaging to protect from moisture
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

For general gut health support alongside your treatment, you might also want to explore our vitamins and supplements range, which includes products that support digestive wellbeing.

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Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Buscopan Cramps tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £6.19. They are also available from most high street pharmacies and supermarkets without a prescription. As a GSL medicine, no consultation is required, though our pharmacists are always happy to help if you have questions.

How do Buscopan Cramps tablets work in the body?

Buscopan Cramps tablets contain hyoscine butylbromide, which blocks muscarinic receptors in the smooth muscle of the gut wall. This prevents the involuntary muscle contractions that cause cramping and spasm. Because the drug acts locally in the gut rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, it tends to cause fewer systemic side effects than some other antispasmodics.

How do I take Buscopan Cramps tablets step by step?

Take 2 tablets (20mg) with a full glass of water when you experience cramps. You can repeat this dose up to four times in a 24-hour period if needed, but never exceed 8 tablets in total per day. Swallow the tablets whole — do not crush or chew them — and always read the patient information leaflet before use.

How quickly do Buscopan Cramps tablets start to work?

Most people notice relief from stomach cramps within 15 to 30 minutes of taking Buscopan Cramps tablets. The speed of onset can vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and whether you've taken the tablets with food. If you don't notice any improvement after a couple of doses, speak to your pharmacist.

Can I take Buscopan Cramps tablets for IBS?

Yes — Buscopan Cramps tablets are widely used to manage the abdominal cramps and spasms that are a hallmark symptom of irritable bowel syndrome. They are recommended as a short-term antispasmodic option for IBS by many healthcare professionals. If your IBS symptoms are new or you haven't had a formal diagnosis, it's important to see your GP before self-treating. You can also explore our IBS and cramps collection for further options.

What is the correct dose of Buscopan Cramps for adults?

The recommended dose for adults and children aged 12 and over is 2 tablets (20mg of hyoscine butylbromide) taken up to four times daily. The maximum dose in any 24-hour period is 8 tablets (80mg). Do not take more than this, and do not give to children under 12 years of age.

Who should not take Buscopan Cramps tablets?

Buscopan Cramps tablets are not suitable for children under 12, people with myasthenia gravis, megacolon, or closed-angle glaucoma. You should also avoid them if you have a known allergy to hyoscine butylbromide or any of the other listed ingredients. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure whether this medicine is right for you.

What are the side effects of Buscopan Cramps tablets?

The most commonly reported side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, difficulty urinating, and a faster heartbeat. These are related to the antimuscarinic action of hyoscine butylbromide and are usually mild. Rarely, some people may experience a skin rash or allergic reaction — if this happens, stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice promptly.

Can I take Buscopan Cramps tablets during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your GP or midwife before taking Buscopan Cramps tablets. While hyoscine butylbromide is poorly absorbed systemically, it is not routinely recommended during pregnancy without medical advice. Your doctor can help you weigh up the benefits and risks for your individual situation.

What happens if I miss a dose of Buscopan Cramps?

Buscopan Cramps tablets are taken as needed for symptom relief rather than on a fixed schedule, so there is no strict "missed dose" concern in the same way as with regular prescribed medicines. Simply take a dose when your cramps return, as long as you haven't already taken 4 doses that day. Never double up to compensate for a missed dose.

Can Buscopan Cramps tablets interact with other medicines?

Yes — Buscopan Cramps can interact with antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, amantadine, quinidine, and metoclopramide, potentially increasing anticholinergic side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either medicine. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements. If you're managing multiple conditions, our pain relief collection may also be relevant to your needs.

How long can I take Buscopan Cramps tablets for?

Buscopan Cramps tablets are intended for short-term use. If your symptoms have not improved after two weeks of use, you should stop taking them and consult your GP. Prolonged or frequent use without medical review is not recommended, as persistent cramps may indicate an underlying condition that needs investigation.

What are the alternatives to Buscopan Cramps tablets?

Common OTC alternatives include mebeverine hydrochloride (Colofac 135mg) and peppermint oil capsules (Colpermin), both of which act as antispasmodics for IBS-related cramps. Mebeverine is a direct smooth muscle relaxant, while peppermint oil has a natural antispasmodic effect on the gut. Your pharmacist can advise on which option is most appropriate for your symptoms.

Can I take Buscopan Cramps tablets with food?

Buscopan Cramps tablets can be taken with or without food — there is no specific requirement to take them with a meal. However, if you find that your cramps are triggered by eating, taking a dose shortly before a meal may help to prevent symptoms. Always follow the dosage instructions and do not exceed the maximum daily dose.

What does the latest research say about hyoscine butylbromide for IBS?

Hyoscine butylbromide has been used as an antispasmodic for decades and remains a recognised option in clinical guidelines for managing IBS-related abdominal pain and cramps. The NHS acknowledges antispasmodics as a first-line treatment for IBS symptoms. While newer research continues to explore gut-brain interactions in IBS, antispasmodics like hyoscine butylbromide remain a well-established and clinically supported choice for symptomatic relief.

How Should You Use Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets?

Buscopan Cramps tablets are straightforward to use, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully to get the most benefit and avoid any unnecessary side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before you start.

What Is the Correct Dose of Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets?

The dose is the same for all eligible users aged 12 and over. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose under any circumstances, and do not give this medicine to children under 12 years of age.

When Is the Best Time to Use Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets?

Take Buscopan Cramps tablets as soon as you notice cramping pain beginning — there's no need to wait until the pain becomes severe. If your cramps tend to follow meals or are triggered by stress, you may find it helpful to take a dose shortly before a known trigger. The tablets can be taken with or without food, so timing around meals is flexible.

For menstrual cramps, some women find it useful to take a dose at the first sign of period pain rather than waiting for it to worsen. Always ensure you stay within the maximum daily dose of 8 tablets regardless of when you take them.

How Long Can You Use Buscopan Cramps 20 Tablets For?

Buscopan Cramps tablets are designed for short-term, symptomatic relief. You should not use them continuously for more than two weeks without speaking to your GP. If your cramps are recurring frequently or are not responding to treatment, this may indicate an underlying condition that requires further investigation.

Long-term management of conditions like IBS should be discussed with your doctor, who can advise on a broader treatment plan including dietary changes, stress management, and prescription options if needed.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Buscopan Cramps Tablets?

Most people who take Buscopan Cramps tablets do not experience significant side effects. However, because hyoscine butylbromide is an antimuscarinic medicine, it can affect other parts of the body that rely on muscarinic receptors — not just the gut.

  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Increased heart rate (tachycardia)

These effects are generally mild and tend to resolve once you stop taking the medicine. Staying well hydrated can help with dry mouth. If blurred vision occurs, avoid driving or operating machinery until it clears.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Buscopan Cramps Tablets?

Less commonly, some people may notice the following effects. These are not experienced by the majority of users but are worth being aware of before you start treatment.

  • Nausea
  • Skin flushing or redness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Constipation
  • Dizziness

If any of these persist or become bothersome, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP. They can advise on whether to continue or switch to an alternative treatment.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Buscopan Cramps Tablets?

Serious side effects are rare but can occur. The most significant concern is an anaphylactic (severe allergic) reaction, which requires immediate emergency medical attention. Signs of anaphylaxis include sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, a rapid drop in blood pressure, and collapse.

If you experience any of these symptoms after taking Buscopan Cramps tablets, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately. Do not take another dose. Carry the medicine packaging with you so medical staff can identify what you have taken.

Can Buscopan Cramps Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — hyoscine butylbromide can interact with several other medicines, potentially increasing the risk of anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth, urinary retention, and blurred vision. The following medicines are known to interact:

  • Antihistamines (e.g. chlorphenamine, loratadine)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine)
  • Amantadine (used for Parkinson's disease and influenza)
  • Quinidine (used for heart rhythm problems)
  • Metoclopramide (used for nausea) — reduced effectiveness of both medicines

Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine you are taking, including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements, before starting Buscopan Cramps tablets.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects From Buscopan Cramps?

For mild side effects such as dry mouth or slight blurred vision, these often resolve on their own and may not require you to stop treatment. However, if side effects are troublesome, persistent, or unexpected, stop taking the tablets and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk — this helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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