Drotaverine

Antispasmodic
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Drotaverine is a antispasmodic found in 3 medicines sold in India, such as Drotin 40, Drotin DS, Drotin-M. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves cramps of the stomach, intestine, kidney stones and periods.

How it works

An antispasmodic that relaxes smooth muscle in the gut, urinary tract and womb; used for colic and period cramps.

How to take it

Usually 40 to 80 mg up to three times a day.

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Palpitations

Get medical help straight away if

  • Fainting or very low blood pressure
  • Allergic reaction

Be careful

Can cause dizziness; caution with low blood pressure.

Other medicines and interactions

May weaken levodopa.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your doctor before use in pregnancy; not recommended while breastfeeding.

Brands of Drotaverine (2)

Drotin 40Drotin DS

Combination medicines that contain Drotaverine (1)

Drotin-M

Common questions

What is Drotaverine used for?

Relieves cramps of the stomach, intestine, kidney stones and periods.

How does Drotaverine work?

An antispasmodic that relaxes smooth muscle in the gut, urinary tract and womb; used for colic and period cramps.

How should I take Drotaverine?

Usually 40 to 80 mg up to three times a day.

What are the side effects of Drotaverine?

Common: Nausea, dizziness, constipation, palpitations. Get help straight away for: Fainting or very low blood pressure, allergic reaction.

Does Drotaverine interact with other medicines?

May weaken levodopa.

Is Drotaverine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor before use in pregnancy; not recommended while breastfeeding.

Does Drotaverine need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Drotaverine?

Drotin 40, Drotin DS, Drotin-M.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.