Routine use of hyoscine N butylbromide (Buscopan) in double contrast barium enema examinations.

A retrospective analysis of the effect of oral and intravenous hyoscine N butylbromide (Buscopan) on the dimensions of the large bowel during double contrast barium enema (DCBE) examination was made and compared with corresponding measurements without Buscopan. It was found that 20 mg oral Buscopan did not alter colonic dimensions but 20 mg Buscopan intravenously allowed significantly greater distension of the large bowel. The colonic length was greater after intravenous Buscopan but not to a highly significant degree. It is concluded that Buscopan is not effective when given orally. No side effects have been observed with intravenous Buscopan, even in elderly patients. Buscopan given intravenously seems to be a safe and effective drug for use during DCBE examinations.