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Mestinon (Pyridostigmine Bromide) is a cholinesterase inhibitor primarily used to treat myasthenia gravis, a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease that causes muscle weakness and fatigue. It works by improving the communication between nerves and muscles, helping patients regain strength for everyday activities like breathing, swallowing, and moving. Mestinon is also used off-label for conditions like postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), Long COVID autonomic dysfunction, and neurogenic orthostatic hypotension. It is manufactured by Bausch Health and has been a cornerstone treatment for myasthenia gravis for decades.
Mestinon is a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. In simple terms, your body uses a chemical messenger called acetylcholine to send signals from nerves to muscles. An enzyme called acetylcholinesterase normally breaks down acetylcholine after it delivers its message. In conditions like myasthenia gravis, the immune system attacks the receptors that receive acetylcholine, so fewer signals get through to the muscles. Mestinon slows down the breakdown of acetylcholine, allowing more of it to accumulate at the neuromuscular junction and increasing the chances that it will successfully activate the remaining receptors. This leads to improved muscle contraction and reduced weakness.
Mestinon receives a findability score of 60 out of 100, meaning it can be moderately difficult to locate. The immediate-release 60 mg tablets are generally available at most pharmacies. However, the extended-release 180 mg formulation (Mestinon Timespan) has been experiencing ongoing supply issues, with multiple generic manufacturers reporting back orders with no estimated release dates. Increased off-label demand from Long COVID and POTS patients may be contributing to the supply strain. If your pharmacy is out of stock, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy near you that has it available.
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Mestinon is most commonly prescribed by neurologists and neuromuscular medicine specialists who manage myasthenia gravis. Cardiologists may prescribe it for POTS and orthostatic hypotension. Internal medicine physicians, rheumatologists, and primary care providers also prescribe Mestinon, particularly for off-label autonomic uses. Telehealth consultations are available for patients who need a prescription or refill, making it accessible even in areas with limited specialist availability.
No, Mestinon (Pyridostigmine) is not a controlled substance and has no DEA scheduling. It does not carry a risk of abuse or dependence. This means it can be prescribed with standard prescriptions, refilled without special restrictions, and is not subject to the additional monitoring requirements that apply to controlled medications. It can also be prescribed via telehealth without the limitations that apply to Schedule II–V drugs.
Most of these side effects are related to the cholinergic mechanism of the drug and can often be managed by adjusting the dose or taking the medication with food. Serious side effects are rare but include cholinergic crisis (from overdose), bradycardia, bronchospasm, and hypotension. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe muscle weakness or difficulty breathing.
Mestinon remains one of the most important and widely used medications for myasthenia gravis, offering meaningful symptom relief for patients dealing with debilitating muscle weakness. While the immediate-release tablets are generally available, the extended-release formulation has faced supply challenges that can make it harder to find. Generic Pyridostigmine is affordable for most patients, especially with discount cards or insurance coverage. If you're having trouble finding Mestinon in stock at your local pharmacy, Medfinder can help you search nearby pharmacies and locate available supply quickly. Always work with your prescribing doctor to find the right dose and formulation for your needs.
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