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Bentyl vs. Viberzi

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Dicyclomine (Bentyl) and Viberzi (eluxadoline) are both used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but they work differently and have different uses. Dicyclomine is an anticholinergic medication that helps with muscle spasms in the stomach and intestines, making it useful for IBS with cramping. It is available in generic form and is taken four times a day. Common side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, and blurry vision. On the other hand, Viberzi is an antidiarrheal medication that targets opioid receptors in the gut to treat IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D). It is a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and is taken twice a day with food. Viberzi can cause constipation and has a risk of pancreatitis, especially in people without a gallbladder or those who drink a lot of alcohol. Unlike dicyclomine, Viberzi does not have a generic form. Both medications require a prescription and have specific side effects and risks to consider.

Dicyclomine

 

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Viberzi

(eluxadoline)

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Summary for Bentyl

Prescription only

Dicyclomine, also known by its brand name Bentyl, is an anticholinergic medication that's used to treat spasms of the muscles in the stomach and intestines in adults with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This medication is available as generic tablets, capsules, and liquid that are taken by mouth four times daily. There's also an injection form of dicyclomine that's available as brand name and generic; it's injected into the muscle for people who can't take pills by mouth. Common side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, and blurry vision.

Indications for Bentyl

Pros and Cons for Bentyl

Pros

  • Typically taken by mouth
  • Available as an oral liquid that's taken by mouth; good option for people who can't swallow tablets
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Taken 4 times per day
  • Older adults are more likely to have side effects from the medication
  • Might not be recommended for people with kidney or liver problems
  • Can't take if you're breastfeeding because of potentially serious harm to infants

Common Side Effects for Bentyl

  • Dizziness (40%)
  • Dry mouth (33%)
  • Blurred vision (27%)
  • Nausea (14%)

Warnings for Bentyl

  • Faster heart rate (caution in people with heart conditions)
  • Changes in mood, thoughts, or behaviors
  • Changes to bodily functions
  • Muscle weakness (caution in people with myasthenia gravis)
  • Strong caution in people with certain gut problems
  • Trouble urinating (caution in people with prostate problems)

Summary for Viberzi

Prescription only

Viberzi (eluxadoline) is a prescription medication used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults. It works on the opioid receptor to help ease symptoms such as stomach pain and diarrhea. You typically take a dose by mouth twice a day with food. Because of its potential for misuse and dependence, it’s considered a controlled substance. Common side effects include constipation, nausea, and stomach pain.

Indications for Viberzi

Pros and Cons for Viberzi

Pros

  • Tablet that's taken by mouth
  • Typically works within a week
  • Approved for males and females with IBS-D

Cons

Common Side Effects for Viberzi

Warnings for Viberzi

  • Pancreatitis
  • Bile duct muscle spasm
  • Allergic reactions
  • Constipation

Prices with our coupons for Bentyl vs. Viberzi

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Dicyclomine20 tablets / 20mg
$8.88$19.86
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Viberzi60 tablets / 100mg
$1,694.34$1,994.59
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