Understanding US Alternatives: What is the US equivalent of Buscopan?

October 10, 2025 •

2 min read

While Buscopan (hyoscine butylbromide) is a widely used antispasmodic medication in many countries for conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), it is not approved for human use by the FDA in the United States. This leads many patients to ask: What is the US equivalent of Buscopan?

Quick Summary

Buscopan's active ingredient, hyoscine butylbromide, lacks FDA approval for human use in the U.S. Effective prescription alternatives for abdominal spasms include hyoscyamine and dicyclomine, alongside OTC peppermint oil.

Key Points

No Buscopan in the US: Buscopan's active ingredient, hyoscine butylbromide, is not FDA-approved for human use in the United States.
Prescription Alternatives: Common US prescription alternatives for Buscopan include hyoscyamine (brand names Levsin, Symax) and dicyclomine (brand name Bentyl).
Hyoscyamine's Fast Action: Hyoscyamine is often chosen for its rapid onset, providing quick relief for acute abdominal spasms.
Dicyclomine for Sustained Relief: Dicyclomine typically has a longer duration of action, which can be more suitable for managing chronic or frequent spasms.
Over-the-Counter Option: The only over-the-counter antispasmodic medication available in the US for gastrointestinal issues is enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules.
Consult a Doctor: It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate alternative based on individual symptoms and medical history.

Why Buscopan (Hyoscine Butylbromide) Is Not Available in the US

Buscopan's active ingredient is hyoscine butylbromide. It is a derivative of hyoscine (scopolamine), modified to reduce central nervous system side effects. Despite its use internationally, hyoscine butylbromide is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human use. There is a veterinary version available in the US for horses, but it is not for human consumption.

Common US Antispasmodic Alternatives

For US patients needing relief from abdominal cramping and spasms, doctors may recommend FDA-approved antispasmodic alternatives with different pharmacological profiles.

Hyoscyamine (Levsin, Symax, etc.)

Hyoscyamine is a prescription anticholinergic used for various GI issues, including IBS. It works by blocking acetylcholine's action, relaxing stomach and intestinal muscles.

Mechanism of Action: Blocks muscarinic receptors.
Indications: Treats GI disorders, bladder spasms, and peptic ulcers.
Dosage Forms: Available as tablets (immediate-release, sublingual, extended-release) and liquid.
Onset: Relatively fast, with sublingual forms offering rapid relief.

Dicyclomine (Bentyl)

Dicyclomine is another anticholinergic often prescribed for functional bowel disorders like IBS. It directly relaxes GI tract smooth muscles, easing spasms and pain.

Mechanism of Action: Direct smooth muscle relaxation.
Indications: Relieves IBS symptoms like pain and cramping.
Dosage Forms: Available as oral capsules, tablets, syrup, and injections.
Duration: Offers more sustained relief than some other options.

Over-the-Counter Options

Less potent non-prescription options are available.

Peppermint Oil: Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are an effective OTC antispasmodic for IBS, minimizing heartburn.
Chamomile Tea: Some find mild relief from spasms with chamomile tea.

Comparison of Buscopan and its US Replacements


Feature	Buscopan (Hyoscine Butylbromide)	Hyoscyamine (e.g., Levsin)	Dicyclomine (Bentyl)
US Human Availability	No	Yes	Yes
Mechanism	Antimuscarinic/anticholinergic, mostly peripheral action	Antimuscarinic/anticholinergic	Antimuscarinic/anticholinergic
Onset	Rapid, especially with injection	Rapid, especially sublingual form	Slower than hyoscyamine
Duration	4-6 hours for oral forms	4-6 hours (IR) or 12 hours (ER)	6-8 hours
Side Effects	Dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation	Dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation	Dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, fatigue
FDA Status	Not approved for human use	FDA approved	FDA approved
Formulations	Tablets, injections (outside US)	Tablets, capsules, liquids, injections	Tablets, capsules, syrup, injections

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

Selecting the best medication depends on symptom characteristics. Hyoscyamine may suit infrequent, severe pain due to its rapid onset. Dicyclomine's longer duration may be better for consistent symptoms. OTC peppermint oil might help mild to moderate IBS. Consulting a healthcare professional is vital to determine the appropriate and safe treatment.

Conclusion

While Buscopan is not available in the US due to lack of FDA approval, effective alternatives exist. Prescription options like hyoscyamine and dicyclomine provide similar antispasmodic effects for GI conditions like IBS. Enteric-coated peppermint oil is an accessible OTC option for milder symptoms. It is essential to consult a doctor to find the best alternative for individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, they are different medications, though both are antimuscarinic antispasmodics. Hyoscine butylbromide has minimal systemic absorption, while hyoscyamine has more widespread effects.

Hyoscine butylbromide lacks FDA approval for human use in the United States. The manufacturer has not obtained the necessary clearance.

Hyoscyamine has a fast onset, ideal for rapid relief. Dicyclomine provides more sustained relief, better for ongoing symptoms.

Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules are the only FDA-recognized OTC antispasmodic specifically for GI issues.

As anticholinergics, they can cause constipation. They are typically more effective for IBS-D and not recommended for IBS-C.

Inform your doctor about past hyoscine butylbromide use. This helps them recommend a suitable FDA-approved US alternative.

No, importing medications without a valid US prescription is illegal and unsafe. Use FDA-approved US alternatives.