Menstrual cramps are a normal occurrence during menstruation for many women. While some try to get through the pain, some take medication to relieve it. One such medicine women frequently use to relieve menstrual cramps is meftal spas.
Though meftal spas is effective in treating cramps and inflammations, many wonder if it affects a woman’s fertility. This article delves deep into what meftal spas is and if it causes infertility.
What is Meftal spas?
Meftal Spas is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkiller and muscle relaxant that aids in alleviating cramps and pain associated with menstruation. In addition to relieving pain, it can also be used to treat fever, soft tissue swellings, fracture-related injuries, dental decay, and minor surgical procedures.
Dicyclomine, an anti-spasmodic, and mefenamic acid, an NSAID (Non-Steroidical Anti-Inflammatory Drug), are two components that are present Meftal Spas. By reducing muscle spasms and inhibiting the action of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, these tablets aid in the relaxation of inflamed muscles.
Does Meftal Spas Cause Infertility Among Females?
No, meftal spas does not affect infertility when women take them to alleviate their menstrual pain. However, getting a doctor’s advice before taking the medication is better.
Most women fear that meftal spas will affect infertility because it inhibits the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which might cause issues with the female’s natural reproductive process.
However, women don’t need to fear because this happens only when the medicine is taken in large amounts for a prolonged period. Occasional intake of medicine to relieve pain won’t affect a woman’s fertility.
What are the uses of Mefenamic acid?
Mefenamic acid or meftal spas is used to relieve pain caused due to
- Headache
- Dysmenorrhea
- Dental pain
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis, etc.
They work by inhibiting prostaglandins, a group of messengers responsible for body pain and inflammation. These enzymes are found in various areas of the body, like the stomach, kidneys, and areas of inflammation.
The mefenamic acid inhibits the two prostaglandin synthetase receptors, COX-1 and COX-2, and stops them from releasing the prostaglandin synthetase enzyme.
- COX-1: Usually found in the stomach, the enzyme speeds up the production of prostaglandins.
- COX-2: This enzyme plays a major role in inflammations.
When the activity of these enzymes is blocked, the pain and inflammation can be reduced.
Is Meftal Spas Safe?
Yes, meftal spas are completely safe to use as long as one takes the right amount of dosage. Prolonged or excessive usage of the medicine can cause adverse effects like
- Gastrointestinal bleeding,
- Liver damage,
- Renal impairment,
- Indigestion,
- Mild nausea,
- Constipation,
- Diarrhea, etc.
These issues can also cause hormonal imbalances, thus indirectly affecting a woman’s fertility. This can also affect a man’s fertility by interfering with sperm production.
When is Meftal Spas Tablet Prescribed?
Meftal spas is usually prescribed if a person has body pain or inflammations. Below are some instances when one can take the medication.
- Women can take this medicine to treat dysmenorrhea, pain associated with menstrual cycle.
- They can also be used to relieve pre-menstrual cramps.
- It can also be used to treat abdominal pain that occurs around the belly button or between the chest and pelvic areas.
- This medication is also an analgesic that can be used to lessen stomach acidity, gas, and bloating. It can also partially cure irritable bowel syndrome.
- Sometimes, Meftal Spas can also be used to lower fever.
Guidelines to follow while taking the Meftal Spas tablet and gel
Tablets – Doctors usually recommend people take 500 mg tablets. Mefenamic acid is also available in controlled-release tablets with longer acting times. Although taking an oral pill is simple, there are different forms available.
Gels – This lubricant-free topical form is simple to distribute and take off. It is an emollient product that acts for a longer time without leaving behind many adverse effects. The gel form has an attractive appearance and is translucent.
Although they are used less frequently, it is also available in creams, lotions, and powders.
When to avoid taking meftal spas?
If you are following any of the below medications, try to avoid taking meftal spas with them.
- Aspirin
- Methotrexate
- Cyclosporine
- Other NSAIDs
Conclusion
Meftal spas do not affect infertility unless they are taken in excessive amounts. However, it will be better for women to consult their gynecologist and get a recommended dosage before using them.
Meftal spas shouldn’t typically be used as a pain reliever by those with heart conditions. In people taking the anticlotting medication warfarin, it raises the risk or severity of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Meftal Spas don’t interfere with monthly bleeding in terms of duration or intensity. It only reduces the discomfort brought on by menstrual cramps. The menstrual cycle is not impacted in any way by it.
Meftal Spas does not work like an aspirin, hence it is ineffective for treating headaches. It should only be used to treat stomach pain.
No, children below the age of 12 should not use meftal spas. They can use a pediatric version of the medicine in case of pain or inflammation.
