Menstrual Disorders - Medications

Highlights	Risk Factors	Medications
Introduction	Complications	Surgery
Menstrual Disorders	Diagnosis	Resources
Causes	Lifestyle Changes	References

Medications

There are a number of different medicines prescribed for menstrual disorders.

Common Pain Relievers for Cramps

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) block prostaglandins, the substances that increase uterine contractions. They are effective painkillers that also help control the inflammatory factors that may be responsible for heavy menstrual bleeding. Aspirin is the most common NSAID, but there are dozens of others available over the counter or by prescription.

Among the most effective NSAIDs for menstrual disorders are ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Midol PMS, generic), naproxen (Aleve, generic), and mefenamic acid (Ponstel). Long-term daily use of any NSAID can increase the risk for gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers, as well as heart attack and stroke.

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An ulcer is a crater-like lesion on the skin or mucous membrane caused by an inflammatory, infectious, or malignant condition. To avoid irritating an ulcer a person can try eliminating certain substances from their diet such as caffeine, alcohol, aspirin, and avoid smoking. Patients can take certain medicines to suppress the acid in the stomach causing the erosion of the stomach lining. Endoscopic therapy can be used to stop bleeding from the ulcer.

Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, generic) is a good alternative to NSAIDs, especially when stomach problems, ulcers, or allergic reactions prohibit their use. Some products (Pamprin, Premsyn) combine acetaminophen with other drugs, such as a diuretic, to reduce bloating. Little evidence exists to indicate whether they are more or less effective than NSAIDs or other mild pain relievers.

Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives (OCs), commonly called birth control pills or "the Pill," contain combinations of an estrogen and a progesterone (in a synthetic form called progestin). The estrogen compound used in most combination OCs is estradiol. There are many different progestins, but common types include levonorgestrol, drospirenone, norgestrol, norethindrone, and desogestrel. (Combination contraceptives are also available in other forms, including patches and vaginal rings, but they may increase the risk for menstrual cramping and bleeding.)