Belladonna
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
Belladonna has been used for centuries to treat many medical conditions. The best scientific evidence supports its use for irritable bowel syndrome. It contains active ingredients like atropine, hyoscine (scopolamine) and hyoscyamine that have an anticholinergic response on nerves. Anticholinergic overdose may cause severe reactions like heart attack, coma or sudden death.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Airway obstruction C
Ear infection C
Headache C
Irritable bowel syndrome C
Menopausal symptoms C
Nervous system disturbances C
Premenstral syndrome (PMS) C
Radiation therapy rash C
Sweating C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic to belladonna or plants of the Solanaceae (nightshade) family (bell peppers, potatoes, eggplants). Avoid with history of heart disease, high blood pressure, heart attack, abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia), congestive heart failure, stomach ulcer, constipation, stomach acid reflux (serious heartburn), hiatal hernia, gastrointestinal disease, ileostomy, colostomy, fever, bowel obstruction, benign prostatic hypertrophy, urinary retention, glaucoma (narrow angle), psychotic illness, Sjögren's syndrome, dry mouth (xerostomia or salivary gland disorders), neuromuscular disorders such as myasthenia gravis, Down's syndrome. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Agitation, altered blood pressure, birth defects, blisters, bloating, blurred sight, coma, constipation, confusion, convulsions, death, difficulty breast feeding, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth/skin, fainting, fast breathing, fast heartbeat, hallucinations, headache, heart attack, increased reflexes (hyperreflexia), irregular heartbeat, leg cramps, less urinating or sweating, lightheadedness, mental problems, muscle pain, muscle shakes/tremors, no muscle movement (especially not breathing), redness of the skin, sedation, skin rash, sensitivity to light (eyes), slurred speech, stiff muscles, unsteadiness, wide pupils.

Possible interactions:
All drugs with anticholinergic effects, antidepressant medications (tricyclic drugs), drugs taken for some mental illnesses (like prochlorperazine), drugs for memory issues, amantadine, tacrine (Cognex®), benztropine, drugs for allergies (like diphenhydramine), asthma/COPD drugs (like ipratropium), cisapride (Propulsid®), alcohol, oxybutynin (Ditropan®), quinidine, procainamide, alcohol, alkaloids, atropine, ergot derivatives, hormonal agents, drugs that increase sun sensitivity, drugs cleared by the kidney, scopolamine and herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
10 milligrams of hyoscine butylbromide has been taken four times daily by mouth. Combination products containing 0.25 milligrams of belladonna (levorotatory alkaloids) and 50 milligrams of phenobarbital has been taken once daily by mouth.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.