Mecamylamine

Generic name: mecamylamine [ meck-a-MILL-a-meen ]
Brand names: Vecamyl, Inversine
Dosage form: oral tablet (2.5 mg)
Drug class:Antiadrenergic agents, peripherally acting

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Nov 24, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is mecamylamine?

Mecamylamine is used to treat moderate to severe hypertension (high blood pressure). Because of its many side effects, mecamylamine is not commonly used.

Mecamylamine is also used to treat malignant hypertension (extremely high blood pressure that comes on suddenly). Malignant hypertension can damage organs in the body if left untreated.

Mecamylamine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use mecamylamine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• mild, moderate, or well-controlled hypertension;

• severe kidney disease, or kidney failure;

• glaucoma;

• a blockage in your stomach or intestines;

• poor blood flow to your heart; or

• if you have recently had a heart attack.

Some drugs should not be used together with mecamylamine. Your doctor may change your treatment plan if you also use an antibiotic or sulfa drug.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a heart attack or stroke;

• coronary artery disease (clogged or hardened arteries);

• kidney disease;

• urination problems;

• a chronic infection;

• bleeding problems; or

• if you are on a low-salt diet.

It is not known whether mecamylamine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

You should not breastfeed while using mecamylamine.

How should I take mecamylamine?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Take mecamylamine after meals.

Allow for the same time interval between your meals and your mecamylamine doses. For example, if you take your medicine 15 minutes after eating, take it that way each time.

You may need different amounts of this medicine at different times of the day. Follow your doctor's d...