What is Midol?
Midol is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID). Midol is a brand name for over-the-counter analgesics intended to treat period cramps and other menstrual-related symptoms. It inhibits the development of some natural compounds in your body that promote inflammation. If you have a chronic ailment such as arthritis, speak with your doctor about non-drug therapy and the use of other medications to manage your pain.
Midol uses
Midol is used to treat a variety of different types of pain, including headaches, muscle pains, tendonitis, tooth pain, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, it alleviates the pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with arthritis, bursitis, and gout attacks. This substance is referred to as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by inhibiting the development of certain naturally occurring chemicals that induce inflammation in the body. If you are treating a chronic ailment such as arthritis, speak with your doctor about non-drug therapy options and/or the use of alternative pharmaceuticals to manage your pain. Even if you have previously used the product, check the label for ingredients. The manufacturer may have altered the formulation. Additionally, items with identical names may include a variety of distinct substances intended for a variety of different reasons. Taking the incorrect product could be harmful.
How does Midol work?
According to the FDA labeling, the precise mechanism of action of acetaminophen has not been fully established. Despite this, due to its propensity to inhibit the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways, it is frequently classified alongside NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine).
It is believed to exert central actions that eventually result in the relief of pain symptoms. Acetaminophen is thought to enhance the pain threshold by inhibiting two cyclooxygenase isoforms, COX-1 and COX-2, which are involved in prostaglandin (PG) formation. Prostaglandins are responsible for the experience of pain. 13 Acetaminophen does not inhibit cyclooxygenase in peripheral tissues and has no anti-inflammatory impact on the peripheral tissues. While acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is an irreversible COX inhibitor that inhibits the enzyme directly, investigations have demonstrated that acetaminophen (paracetamol) inhibits COX indirectly. 24 Additionally, studies indicate that acetaminophen preferentially inhibits a COX version that is distinct from the recognized COX-1 and COX-2 variants. 6 COX-3 is the name given to this enzyme.
Acetaminophen’s antipyretic effects are most likely due to direct impact on the brain’s heat-regulating areas, resulting in peripheral vasodilation, sweating, and heat loss. 24 Although the specific mechanism of action of this medicine is unknown at the moment, future study may help to a better understanding.
Dosage
Acetaminophen/caffeine/pyrilamine
Caplet- 500mg/60mg/15mg
Symptoms of menstruation: indicated for the temporary alleviation of menstrual period symptoms
2 caplets PO every 6 hours PRN; maximum of 6 caplets per day.
Administration
Do not exceed the prescribed dose – adults and children 12 years and older: 2 caplets with water – repeat every 6 hours, as needed – do not exceed 6 caplets per day Take two caplets with water, adults, and children 12 years and older. Rep every 6 hours, if necessary.
Midol side effects
Consult your physician immediately if any of the following adverse reactions occur:
- Pain in the abdomen
- Acid brush
- Belching
- Bloating
- Urine that is hazy
- Reduction in urine production
- Diminution of urine output or diminution of pee-concentrating ability
- Diarrhea
- Having a difficult time passing a bowel movement (stool)
- A buildup of air or gas in the stomach or intestines
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Skin that itches
- Chest, upper stomach, or throat ache or discomfort
- Skin that is pale
- Gaseous expulsion
- Nausea
Midol drug interaction
Aliskiren, ACE inhibitors (such as captopril, lisinopril), angiotensin II receptor blockers (such as losartan, valsartan), cidofovir, corticosteroids (such as prednisone), lithium, and “water pills” may all interact with this medication (diuretics such as furosemide).
Precautions/ safety information
Acetaminophen is present in this product. Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than six gelcaps in 24 hours, the maximum daily dose for this medicine, in conjunction with other medications.
Acetaminophen may cause serious skin irritation or allergic reactions. Skin reddening, blisters, rash, hives, face swelling, asthma (wheezing), and shock are all possible symptoms. If a skin or general allergic reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention. Use with caution if you are taking any other medication that contains acetaminophen (prescription or nonprescription). If you are unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, see your doctor or pharmacist.
If you have ever experienced an adverse reaction to this product or any of its contents, inform your doctor or pharmacist. Consult your physician prior to usage if you have liver disease, glaucoma, difficulties urinating owing to prostate gland enlargement, or a lung problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Consult your physician or pharmacist prior to usage if you are taking the blood thinner warfarin or sedatives or tranquilizers. When using this product, avoid alcoholic beverages; excitability may occur, particularly in children; alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness; exercise caution when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery; and limit your intake of caffeine-containing medications, foods, or beverages; excessive caffeine may cause nervousness, irritability, insomnia, and, on rare occasions, rapid heartbeat.
Storage
Maintain a room temperature storage environment.
Contraindications
Patients who are aspirin-sensitive. Take this medication with caution if the patient has had a severe allergic reaction (eg, asthma, edema, shock, or hives), as cross-reactions with aspirin may develop in people allergic to aspirin.
Pregnancy or lactation
While breastfeeding women may not experience menstruation immediately after birth, they may still suffer period-like symptoms such as cramps and bloating. If this occurs, Sherry Ross, MD, OBGYN, a women’s health specialist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, says it is acceptable for you to take Midol. She does, however, encourage that you should see your healthcare physician before taking any drug, even over-the-counter medications.
