Nonprescription medications may effectively control
chronic pelvic pain. They also reduce menstrual
cramping caused by
endometriosis and
adenomyosis.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen
and naproxen, reduce menstrual cramps and relieve pain by reducing swelling
(inflammation) and lowering the level of the hormone prostaglandin within the
uterus.
- Start taking the recommended dose of pain
medication as soon as your discomfort begins or one day before your menstrual
period is scheduled to start.
- Take the medication in regularly
scheduled doses to keep the pain under control. Pain medication is more
effective if you take it at regularly scheduled intervals around the clock. You
may wish to take your pain medication in the morning, at lunch, before dinner,
and when you go to bed. Taking the medication only when your pain is 'really
bad' is not an effective method for pain control.
- Try
acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, if NSAIDs do not relieve your pain.
Before you take any nonprescription medications for the first
time, be sure to carefully read the information on the package. It is important
to understand how much of the medication you should take and when you should
take it, as well as reasons not to take the medication. As with all
medications:
- Do not exceed the maximum recommended dose.
- If you have been told to avoid these
medications (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), call your health
professional before taking them.
- If you are or could be pregnant,
call your health professional before using any medication.
- Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than age 20
because of the risk of
Reye syndrome.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Ibuprofen, such as
Advil or Motrin
- Initial dose: 400 mg
- Following doses:
200 mg every 4 hours or 400 mg every 8 hours
- Naproxen, such as
Aleve
- Initial dose: 220 mg
- Following doses: 220 mg
every 8 to 12 hours
- Do not take more than 3 capsules in 24 hours
unless directed by a health professional.
Side effects with NSAIDs are usually mild. Stomach upset or
discomfort is the most common side effect. Taking the medication with food may
help.
Reasons not to use NSAIDs (contraindications)
- Pregnancy or trying to become
pregnant
- Stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal
bleeding
- Nasal polyps
- Allergic reactions to aspirin or related drugs
- Kidney
or liver disease
- Anemia
- Blood-clotting disorders
Do not take NSAIDs if you are taking
any of the following medications:
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants), such as
heparin or warfarin
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or
dexamethasone
- Lithium
- Oral antidiabetic
medication
