What Are the Side Effects of Midol?

What Are the Side Effects of Midol?
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Ibuprofen comes in a variety of brand-name packages, such as Midol, which focuses on the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and those encountered during menstruation, Bayer--the company that markets it--states. Ibuprofen, classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, works to fight inflammation, pain in the joints, stiffness and swelling. Bayer states Midol also works to help relieve cramps associated with menstruation. People may buy Midol over the counter without a prescriptions.

Pain and Swelling

Although marketed to relieve pain and swelling, Midol actually may cause these problems as serious common side effects of the medication, the Mayo Clinic website, MayoClinic.com reports. Pain may occur, for example, in the woman's abdominal area. She also may experience it in her throat, stomach and chest. The Mayo Clinic recommends immediate consultation with her physician because any of these side effects may require medical attention.

Nausea and Vomiting

Ibuprofen also may cause serious common side effects that disturb the woman's digestive system. Midol may, for example, cause her to have an acidic stomach, and she may feel nauseous and vomit because of the medication's side effects. The medicine also may produce indigestion, heartburn and belching, as well as flatulence. While none of these may appear serious, these side effects may indicate serious medical problems and need attention, the Mayo Clinic reports. The National Institutes of Health report some of these side effects as non-serious and temporary.

Breathing Difficulties

Even though Midol comes as a non-prescription drug, it can have serious common side effects that affect the woman's respiratory system. She may find it difficult to breathe while exerting herself, or even when she rests. She may feel short of breath and make a rattling sound when she breathes. These all require medical aid immediately, the Mayo Clinic states.

Urination and Defecation Problems

Midol may induce problems such as a reduction of the output of urine in a woman taking it. She also may find it hard to concentrate urine flow. Her intestines may not function as normal, producing either diarrhea or constipation. Again, these side effects classify as serious and common, requiring medical help immediately.

Tachycardia

Although a rapid heartbeat, known by the medical term tachycardia, may cause serious problems such as high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes, if it continues, in the case of Midol, the side effect classifies as non-serious and temporary, Drugs.com reports. If however, tachycardia continues, the woman should seek medical aid.

References

Article reviewed by Rachel Mattison Last updated on: Aug 18, 2011

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