Antispasmodic (muscle relaxant for cramps)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Drotaverine Hydrochloride is a muscle relaxant that works by relaxing the smooth muscles in your body, especially in your stomach, intestines, and womb, to relieve pain caused by muscle spasms or cramps.
Inhibits phosphodiesterase enzymes, increasing intracellular cyclic AMP and cGMP levels, which promotes smooth muscle relaxation in the gastrointestinal and urinary tract. This reduces muscle spasm-induced pain and visceral contractions.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the one you missed.
Only buy from licensed pharmacies and avoid buying from roadside sellers or market stalls, as fake drugs are common in Nigeria. Do not use this drug to mask serious abdominal pain that could be appendicitis or another emergency, as if pain persists, see a doctor. Do not share your medication with others even if they have similar symptoms.
Avoid combining with Levodopa (used for Parkinson's disease) as Drotaverine may reduce its effect. Be careful if you are taking blood pressure medications, as Drotaverine can further lower your blood pressure. Drinking alcohol while on this drug can increase dizziness and make you feel faint.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Drotaverine with your other drugs?
Consult your doctor before using Drotaverine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as while it is sometimes used in pregnancy to manage certain conditions, it should only be taken under medical supervision.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the tablets in their original pack and far away from children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.