Dear Teachermom,

I take Mestinon. For me, it's been a very helpful medication with few side effects. This seems to be true for a lot of people, and doctors consider it to be a pretty safe drug. It wears off quickly, which is both a plus and a minus, I suppose. In terms of trying it, that's a plus, because if you did have any uncomfortable symptoms, they would probably wear off in a few hours.

I think most people start with a partial dose. When I began taking it, my doctor suggested taking 1/4 tablet doses for a few days first, then 1/2 tablet, and finally the full 60 mg pill. You could contact your neurologist and ask about starting the Mestinon this way. Sometimes patients find that 1/2 tablet, for instance, is all they need to help their symptoms, and they remain at that dose.

Esophageal spasm is very uncomfortable, and it sounds like the other problems you are having are difficult, too. If you decide to try the Mestinon, I hope it really helps!

Best wishes,
Erin