What it is used for

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as a once-daily inhaler
Severe drooling in children and young people with nerve conditions (liquid)
Reducing saliva and secretions during surgery or end-of-life care (injection)

Read our guides:

COPD

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Excess sweating (hyperhidrosis), under a specialist

How it works

Glycopyrronium blocks acetylcholine receptors. In the lungs, this relaxes the muscles around the airways so they stay open for 24 hours. Elsewhere, it reduces saliva and sweat.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Glycopyrronium can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

dry mouth
constipation
difficulty peeing
a stuffy nose
headache

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

wheezing that gets worse straight after using the inhaler
eye pain with blurred vision or seeing halos, which can be signs of glaucoma
being unable to pee

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

It may not be suitable if you have closed-angle glaucoma or problems peeing.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.