Mefenamic Acid-Dicyclomine
Mefenamic Acid-Dicyclomine is a combination medication used to treat abdominal pain associated with muscle spasms, such as that caused by Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or painful menstruation. Mefenamic acid is an NSAID that provides pain relief and reduces inflammation. Dicyclomine is an antispasmodic that relaxes the smooth muscles of the gut. Together, they effectively manage both the pain and the underlying muscle cramping.
What is Mefenamic Acid–Dicyclomine?
Mefenamic Acid-Dicyclomine is a combination medicine commonly used to relieve painful menstrual cramps, abdominal discomfort, and muscle spasms in the digestive system. This tablet works by reducing inflammation and relaxing smooth muscles, giving quick relief from sharp or throbbing pain. It is widely used across the USA and other countries for cramp-related symptoms and stomach spasms. The sections below explain its uses, composition, working process, dosage, side effects, and safety precautions.
Mefenamic Acid–Dicyclomine used for
This combination tablet is prescribed to manage several pain-related and spasm-related conditions, such as:
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Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)
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Abdominal pain linked to muscle spasms
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Irritable bowel discomfort
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Pain from inflammation
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Digestive tract spasms caused by stress or food triggers
It provides dual action by lowering inflammation while also relaxing the gut muscles.
Chemical composition
This medicine contains two active ingredients:
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Mefenamic Acid – a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation
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Dicyclomine Hydrochloride – an antispasmodic agent that relaxes smooth muscles in the abdomen
Inactive components may include binders, preservatives, and stabilizers depending on the brand.
Mefenamic Acid–Dicyclomine mechanism
The combination works through two actions:
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Pain relief and anti-inflammatory effect
Mefenamic Acid blocks prostaglandin production. Prostaglandins are chemicals that cause swelling and period-related pain. By lowering their levels, it reduces discomfort and cramping. -
Muscle relaxation
Dicyclomine reduces spasms in the stomach and intestinal muscles. This helps ease sharp abdominal pain, bloating, and cramp-like sensations.
Together, the tablet gives faster and more complete relief than using either ingredient alone.
How does it help relieve cramp pain?
Mefenamic Acid–Dicyclomine targets both the source of pain and the muscle tension that causes discomfort. It:
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Eases menstrual cramps caused by uterine contractions
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Lowers inflammation that worsens period pain
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Relaxes tight abdominal muscles
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Helps restore comfort during digestive spasms
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Provides relief within a short time after taking the tablet
This makes it useful for women experiencing painful cycles and individuals dealing with recurrent abdominal spasms.
What are the other benefits?
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Helps manage pain associated with gastrointestinal movement disorders
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Reduces discomfort from stress-related stomach tightening
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Offers multi-symptom relief (pain + spasm control)
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Provides predictable relief when used as directed
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Useful for patients who prefer combination therapy instead of multiple tablets
Dosages
Available strengths or dosage
This combination medicine is commonly available as:
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Mefenamic Acid 250 mg + Dicyclomine 10 mg tablets
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Mefenamic Acid 500 mg + Dicyclomine 20 mg tablets
Some regions may offer additional strengths or capsule forms depending on the manufacturer.
Your healthcare provider will determine the strength based on your age, severity of pain, and medical condition.
How and when to take it
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Take the tablet with food to minimize stomach irritation
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Swallow whole with water; do not crush or chew
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Use only during pain episodes or as instructed by your doctor
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Do not exceed the recommended daily dose
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For menstrual cramps, it is often taken at the first sign of pain
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Maintain enough hydration and rest to support faster relief
If symptoms do not improve within a few hours or keep returning, consult your doctor for further evaluation.
Overdose caution
Accidental or intentional overdose may cause:
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Severe stomach pain
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Vomiting or digestive upset
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Blurred vision
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Extreme drowsiness
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Dry mouth
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Breathing difficulty (rare)
Seek medical help immediately if any severe symptoms occur. Never combine this medicine with other NSAIDs without approval.
Who can use/take Mefenamic Acid–Dicyclomine?
This tablet may be suitable for:
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Adults with menstrual pain
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Individuals with abdominal spasms
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Women with heavy or painful cycles
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Patients with mild digestive contractions
Use with caution or only under medical advice if:
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You are older than 60
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You have a history of ulcers or stomach bleeding
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You have kidney or liver disease
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You have heart-related conditions
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You are pregnant or breastfeeding
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You have glaucoma or urinary obstruction (due to Dicyclomine effects)
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You are allergic to NSAIDs or anticholinergic medicines
Children should not take this tablet unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
Side Effects & Precautions
What are the side effects?
Some users may experience:
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Nausea or stomach upset
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Dry mouth
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Dizziness
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Drowsiness
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Blurred vision
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Mild constipation
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Headache
Less common but more serious side effects may include severe stomach pain, breathing difficulty, or allergic reactions.
What are the precautions to avoid side effects?
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Always take the tablet with food
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Avoid alcohol while using this medicine
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Do not drive if you feel dizzy or drowsy
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Inform your doctor about all current medications
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Limit long-term use unless supervised by a healthcare provider
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Stay hydrated to reduce digestive side effects
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Avoid taking it alongside other pain relievers without medical advice
Always consult your doctor before use. If prescribed, you can order Mefenamic Acid–Dicyclomine tablets online safely from trusted pharmacy sources and ensure timely refills to maintain your treatment progress.