Belladonna/opium (Into the rectum)

Belladonna Alkaloids (bell-a-DON-a AL-ka-loyds), Opium Alkaloids (OH-pee-um AL-ka-loyds)

Treats moderate to severe pain. Belongs to a group of drugs called narcotic analgesics.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to belladonna, opium, or to related narcotic pain killers (such as morphine). You should not use this medicine if you have glaucoma, liver disease, kidney disease, asthma or other breathing problems. Do not use this medicine if you have seizures, or a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

How to Use This Medicine:

Suppository

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Never take rectal suppositories by mouth.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Remove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it.
  • Wet the suppository and your finger with water before inserting it.
  • Lie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum about 1 inch.
  • Keep lying down for about 15 minutes to keep the suppository from coming out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again.

If a dose is missed:

  • Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not refrigerate.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine applicator(s), containers, and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using medicine for seizures (such as phenobarbital, Depakote®, Dilantin®, Keppra™, Luminal®, Tegretol®), a muscle relaxer (such as Flexeril®), or an anesthetic medicine (such as benzocaine, lidocaine, or novocaine).
  • Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you have had an unusual reaction to atropine or to similar medicines such as dicyclomine (Bentyl®), glycopyrrolate (Robinul®), or scopolamine (Transderm Scop®).
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have heart disease, thyroid problems, or an enlarged prostate.
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • Dizziness may be worse if you get up too quickly from a sitting or lying position. Stand up slowly after you have been sitting or lying down to help decrease dizziness.
  • This medicine should not be used by a child under 12 years old.
  • Your eyes may be more sensitive to bright light while you are using this medicine. You may want to wear sunglasses in bright sunlight.
  • This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.
  • This medicine may cause constipation, especially with long-term use. Ask your doctor if you should use a laxative to prevent and treat constipation.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Fast, or uneven heartbeat.
  • Urinating less than usual.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Dizziness, drowsiness, or light-headedness.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Nausea, vomiting, or constipation.
  • Vision changes, such as trouble focusing.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.

All rights reserved

A.D.A.M. content is best viewed in IE9 or above, Firefox and chrome browser.