According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Midol is an over-the-counter oral medication manufactured by Bayer HealthCare that is indicated for the alleviation of symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). There are five currently marketed formulations of Midol: Midol Complete, Midol Extended Relief, Midol Teen, Midol Liquid Gels and Midol PM. The effects of Midol vary based upon the formulation utilized.
Analgesic Effects
All formulations of Midol contain an analgesic to help alleviate painful symptoms associated with PMS, as noted on the Midol website. The active analgesic varies based upon the type of Midol formulation and may include: acetaminophen (Midol Complete, Midol Teen and Midol PM), naproxen sodium (Midol Extended Relief) or ibuprofen (Midol Liquid Gels). If you experience painful cramps, headache, backache or muscle aches prior to or during your menstrual period, taking the recommended dose of one of the Midol formulations may help alleviate your painful symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Naproxen sodium (Midol Extended Relief) and ibuprofen (Midol Liquid Gels) are members of a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Naproxen sodium may help alleviate inflammatory symptoms associated with PMS, including cramps, backache or headache, for up to 12 hours. The properties of ibuprofen allow it to work more quickly than naproxen sodium or acetaminophen and may help provide faster relief of PMS symptoms. If you experience painful cramps, backache, headache or muscle aches and are in need to fast or prolonged symptom relief, taking the recommended dose of Midol Liquid Gels or Midol Extended Relief may prove beneficial.
Antipyretic Effects
All formulations of Midol contain an antipyretic component that is intended to help reduce fever. Some women with PMS may experience fever in addition to symptoms such as cramping or headache. If you experience fever during your menstrual period, taking the recommended dose of one of the Midol formulations may reduce or alleviate this symptom.
Additional Effects
Women with PMS may also experience additional symptoms, including bloating, fatigue or difficulty sleeping. Midol Complete contains caffeine and a diuretic (pyrilamine maleate) to help combat fatigue and bloating, respectively. For women who have difficulty sleeping during their menstrual period, Midol PM offers both pain relief and a sleep-aid (diphenhydramine). For women who experience bloating but are monitoring their caffeine intake, Midol Teen is a caffeine-free formulation that offers both analgesic and diuretic (pamabrom) effects. If you experience bloating, fatigue or difficulty sleeping, taking the recommended dose of the appropriate Midol formulation may provide relief.
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