What is Buscopan Cramps?

Buscopan Cramps is an antispasmodic medicine used to relieve abdominal cramps, including those linked to period pain, stomach upset, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Each tablet contains 10 mg of hyoscine butylbromide, which works directly on the smooth muscle of the gut and pelvis to ease spasms.

How Does Buscopan Cramps Work?

Hyoscine butylbromide targets the muscle walls of the stomach, intestines, and pelvis. It reduces spasms that cause sudden, sharp, or cramping pain, while still allowing the digestive system and uterus to function normally. This makes it useful for cramps caused by IBS, indigestion, and menstruation.

Symptoms of Abdominal and Period Cramps

Cramps can feel like:

Sudden sharp or twisting pain in the abdomen
Lower tummy pain during menstruation
Bloating, discomfort, or griping pain after eating
Cramping associated with IBS, often alongside diarrhoea or constipation

Alternative Treatment Options

Other ways to manage cramps include:

Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
Antispasmodics such as mebeverine (Colofac) or peppermint oil capsules (Mintec, Colpermin)
Lifestyle adjustments, such as using a heat pad, managing diet triggers, and stress reduction
Hormonal contraceptives for period pain, where appropriate

Buscopan may interact with:

Antihistamines
Tricyclic antidepressants
Certain medicines for heart rhythm or breathing problems

Always tell your prescriber about any other medicines or supplements you are taking.
 

Can Buscopan Cramps Be Purchased Over the Counter?

Yes. In the UK, Buscopan Cramps is available from pharmacies and retailers without a prescription. A pharmacist will check it is suitable for you before supply.

• Adults and children over 12 years: Take two tablets up to four times a day as needed.
• Swallow the tablets whole with water.
• Do not exceed eight tablets in 24 hours.
• Not recommended for children under 12 years without medical advice.
• If symptoms worsen or do not improve after 2 weeks, consult a doctor.

Active Ingredient

Hyoscine butylbromide 10 mg per tablet

Inactive Ingredients (Excipients)

Calcium hydrogen phosphate
Maize starch
Soluble starch
Colloidal anhydrous silica
Magnesium stearate
Sucrose
Talc
Acacia
Titanium dioxide (E171)
Macrogol 6000
Carnauba wax
Montan glycol wax

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Common side effects

Dry mouth
Constipation
Blurred vision

Less common side effects

Dizziness
Skin rash or itching

Rare but serious side effects

Allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, and difficulty breathing
Sudden worsening of abdominal pain (which may be a sign of a more serious condition)

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, stop taking Buscopan Cramps and seek medical advice immediately.

Warnings and precautions

Speak to your doctor or prescriber before taking Buscopan if you:

• Have liver, kidney, or heart problems
• Experience unexplained abdominal pain, blood in stools, or persistent changes in bowel habits
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding (only take if advised by your doctor)