“Are painkillers safe to have for menstrual cramps?”
I am 34 years old and I have always had severe cramps. Over the counter medications really do not help me at all. Can stronger painkillers help, and are they safe to take for menstrual cramps?
12 Answers
THere are MANY non prescription agents to use for severe cramps. If they don't work, then of course prescription analgesics are sometimes needed. If you aren't interested in pregnancy right now, the birth control pill almost invariably relives the pain because it prevents ovulation.
No opiate medication is safe to be used for chronic pain, if that's what you're referring to. I would recommend high doses of ibuprofen (up to 800mg every 8 hours). If that doesn't help, you may be suffering from another underlying condition (like endometriosis for example). I recommend seeing your OBGYN to discuss the pain you're experiencing in detail. He/She will be able to investigate and treat your dysmenorrhea (cramps) properly. Please do not take opiate medications.
Sometimes BCP is useful if there is no contraindication. I would avoid heavy opioids.
Yes, they are safe, but you need to consult your doctor about which one.
Try naproxen’s see if it helps and also have gynecologist check you rule out endometriosis or any other causes
There are different ways to treat your cramps. Taking bcp’s , progesterone IUD, second generation anti-inflammatory meds.
The most effective are non-steroidal anti inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. There are stronger prescriptions medications such as ketorolac that are very effective.
Yes, you can take an anti-inflammatory medication such as Advil, Tylenol, naprosene, etc.
Most pain experienced during menses are cause by pro-inflammatory substances. The most appropriate medications to address such are NSAIDS. If the over-the-counter remedies are not helpful, your physician may provide the prescription alternative. The painful menses may also be improved with oral contraceptive pills if there is no contraindication. Narcotics or opioids are not recommended for menstrual pain.
There is an alternate: instead of taking stronger pain meds, we prescribe hormonal treatment with birth control pills.
Victoria V. Snegovskikh
OB-GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist)
Stronger painkillers are usually narcotics, which are far from ideal to take for menstrual cramps. Try to take Ibuprofen at least a couple of days prior to your expected period, that might help a lot to reduce your cramps.
Over-the-counter medications which work against prostaglandins are the best medications for cramping during your periods. Ibuprofen 400 mg three times a day works better than any other medication. Take it with food. Please consult your doctor before starting any new medication.
Take care!
Take care!
