What is Midol?
Midol is an acetaminophen-based over-the-counter medication used for menstrual pain relief and for the alleviation of a variety of menstrual symptoms. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has a wide variety of signs and symptoms, including mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability, and depression. It’s estimated that as many as 3 of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of premenstrual syndrome.
It is produced by Bayer healthcare a German multinational pharmaceutical and life sciences company and one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world.
Midol works well for menstrual cramps. Many women have menstrual cramps just before and during their menstrual periods. For some women, the discomfort can be annoying. Menstrual pain has been reported by 84.1% of women, with 43.1% reporting that pain occurred during every period, and 41% reporting that pain occurred during some periods.
Can I take Midol on an empty stomach?
Midol can be taken with food or on an empty stomach (but always with a full glass of water). Sometimes taking with food can lessen any upset stomach that may occur after taking Midol.
Do not take Midol if you have a history of alcohol abuse, or consume alcohol while using Midol. You should also avoid Midol if you have a history of liver disease (including hepatitis), severe kidney disease, or phenylketonuria. If you are taking a blood thinner such as warfarin you should talk with your prescriber before starting this medication.
The Food and Drug Administration is also now requiring makers of similar drugs to warn patients of the potential risk of developing severe skin conditions while taking the medications. These skin conditions are exceedingly rated, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, but can be fatal. Call your doctor if you experience reddening of the skin, rash, blisters, and detachment of the upper surface of the skin.
How do I know if Midol is working?
It usually takes about 45 minutes for oral tablet Midol to start working. The orally disintegrating tablets start to work in about 20 minutes. Midol usually lasts about 4 hours for pain relief and symptom reduction, so you shouldn’t take it more often.
How do I know if something is wrong?
You should contact your prescriber if you have any swelling, rash, or trouble breathing. If you become nauseated, try taking Midol with food or milk.
How do I store my medication?
Store in a cool, dry place, such as your nightstand. Don’t store Midol or any medications in a humid place such as the kitchen or bathroom. All medications should be stored in a location in your house that is out of reach from pets, children, or adults who could accidentally take or misuse this medication.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
If you are taking Midol on a regular schedule, take it as soon as you remember. However, do not take another dose until the appropriate time has passed (such as 4 hours for a regular tablet or capsule). If you are unsure what to do, contact your pharmacist. Importantly, you should never take double the recommended dose. If you are taking Midol occasionally for pain, then you can just take the medication when you need it, but no sooner than directed on the box.
