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Medicines Used for Period pain

Also in: हिन्दी தமிழ் मराठी తెలుగు ಕನ್ನಡ বাংলা ગુજરાતી മലയാളം

Period pain is cramping pain in the lower tummy that comes just before or during a period, sometimes spreading to the back and thighs. It happens when the womb tightens, driven by chemicals called prostaglandins, and usually lasts up to 3 days. Medicines used to relieve it include paracetamol and NSAIDs such as mefenamic acid or ibuprofen; some products combine mefenamic acid with the antispasmodic dicyclomine. See a doctor if the pain is severe, getting worse or stops your daily activities, because it can have other causes such as endometriosis or fibroids.

Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.

Medicines used for Period pain

These active ingredients are in medicines whose approved uses include Period pain. Brands are listed A to Z, not ranked. A doctor or pharmacist decides which medicine is right for you.

Dicyclomine

Mefenamic acid

Paracetamol

Common questions

Is period pain normal?

Mild to moderate period pain is common and often a normal part of the menstrual cycle. A heat pad on the tummy, gentle exercise and painkillers can help. Pain that is severe, getting worse, or comes with heavier or irregular bleeding should be checked by a doctor.

Sources

  1. Period pain. NHS (UK)
  2. Dysmenorrhea. StatPearls, National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), US National Library of Medicine
  3. PONSTEL (mefenamic acid capsules) prescribing information and Medication Guide (revised 12/2025). US Food and Drug Administration