Midol is an over-the-counter pill designed to address the symptoms associated with pre-menstrual syndrome as well as menstruation. It is one of the more prominent brands of drugs on the market designed for such a purpose. Midol offers different types of pills that are tailored to the variety of different ways symptoms may present themselves during a woman's period. It is important to note that each type is composed of different drugs. People with drug allergies, especially to non-steroidal anti-inflammatories like naproxen or aspirin, should consider consulting a doctor before taking this medication.
Effects
Midol is designed to relieve the symptoms associated with menstruation and pre-menstruation. These symptoms include bloating, cramping, headache, backache, fatigue and muscle ache, according to the Midol website. The product combines a number of medications into one pill designed to mitigate the effects of each aforementioned symptom depending on the formula.
Types
There are currently four formulas of Midol on the market: Complete, Extended Relief, Cramps & Body Aches and Teen Formula. Each covers a different range of symptoms. Complete is designed to cover all symptoms. Extended relief is designed to provide prolonged pain relief. Cramps & Body Aches and Teen Formula are also formulated for pain relief.
Side Effects
While numerous Internet forums perpetuate discussions that Midol is useful as a hangover cure, the makers of Midol warn against mixing alcoholic beverages with the product. If alcohol is mixed with Midol Complete, it could exacerbate feelings of drowsiness associated with the product. Formulas designed primarily for pain-relief, particularly the Extended Relief formula, contains Naproxen sodium, which can cause an allergic reaction, particularly for those who are allergic to aspirin.
Other Effects
The Cramps & Aches formula carries with the risk of stomach bleeding. According to the manufacturers of Midol, the risks are increased in people older than 60 and people with prior or existing stomach ulcers or bleeding issues. The risks are also increased when the medication is taken in addition to other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or if the medication is mixed with alcohol.
Active Ingredients
Menstrual Complete contains acetaminophen, caffeine and pyrilamine maleate. The active ingredient of the Extended Relief formula is naproxen sodium. For the Cramps & Body Aches version of Midol, ibuprofen is the active ingredient. The Teen Formula contains acetaminophen and pamabrom. Both pamabrom and pyrilamine maleate are diuretics.
Tags: associated with, Body Aches, Cramps Body, Cramps Body Aches, Teen Formula