Mebeverine

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

 

Popular brand names:

Bevispas, Colofac

Drug group:

Drug for irritable bowel syndrome

Prescription needed?

No

 

What does it do?

Mebeverine is an antispasmodic drug used to relieve painful spasms of the intestine (colic) in:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Diverticular disease

 

How does it work?

• Mebeverine has a direct relaxing effect on the muscle in the bowel wall
• It also reduces the transmission of nerve signals to the smooth muscle of the bowel wall which reduces spasms

 

How should it be used?

Mebeverine should be taken 20 minutes before meals

 

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

Total daily dose for adults 300–450mg, taken 2–3 x daily

 

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 30–60 minutes      
                             

How long will the effects last?

6–8 hours                 
                 

When should I stop using it?

Can be stopped as soon as no longer needed            
                         

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected                                                                   

 

What are the possible side effects?

Mebeverine rarely produces side effects.

The following have been reported:

• Less common: constipation
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, swelling of the lips

 

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: cystic fibrosis, porphyria
• Other medicines: No known interactions
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established, discuss with your doctor
• Children: Not used in children <10 years
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: No special problems