Should You Take Meftal Spas or Paracetamol?

In the age of instant solutions and self-medication, popping a pill for pain relief has become second nature for many. Whether it’s a nagging headache, menstrual cramps, or muscle pain, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs like Meftal Spas and Paracetamol often seem like quick fixes. But are they the right choices? And more importantly, should you be taking them without consulting a doctor?

The answer is simple: Neither! Always seek medical advice before taking any medication. Let’s break down why.

otc medicines

Understanding Meftal Spas and Paracetamol

Before diving into the risks of self-medication, it’s crucial to understand what these drugs are, what they contain, and what they are typically used for.

Meftal Spas

Composition: Meftal Spas contains two active ingredients:

Dicyclomine Hydrochloride (10 mg): An antispasmodic that helps relieve muscle cramps by relaxing smooth muscles in the digestive tract and uterus.
Mefenamic Acid (250 mg): A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation.

Common Uses:

Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)
Abdominal pain due to spasms
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)-related discomfort

Side Effects of Meftal Spas

Nausea and vomiting
Dizziness or drowsiness
Dry mouth and blurred vision
Heartburn or stomach irritation
Increased risk of ulcers and kidney issues with prolonged use

You may also like to read: Government Issues Alert on Adverse Reactions to Painkiller Meftal

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

Composition:

Paracetamol is a single-ingredient analgesic and antipyretic (fever reducer), commonly found in doses of 500 mg or 650 mg per tablet.

Common Uses:

Fever relief
Mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothaches, and muscle pain
Cold and flu symptoms

Side Effects of Paracetamol

Liver damage (especially in high doses or prolonged use)
Allergic reactions like rashes and swelling
Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
Potential kidney issues if misused

You may also like to read: UK plans to restrict Paracetamol purchases to reduce suicides, says report

Differences Between Meftal Spas and Paracetamol

Feature	Meftal Spas	Paracetamol
Main Use	Pain and cramps	Fever and mild pain
Active Ingredients	Mefenamic Acid + Dicyclomine	Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)
Mode of Action	Relieves muscle spasms and reduces inflammation	Blocks pain signals and lowers fever
Common Side Effects	Nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, stomach discomfort	Liver damage (in high doses), nausea
Best Taken For	Menstrual cramps, IBS, colicky pain	Fever, mild pain, cold symptoms

Why You Should Avoid Self-Medication

While Meftal Spas and Paracetamol may provide temporary relief, they are not permanent solutions. Taking the wrong medication—or the right medication in the wrong dosage—can lead to severe complications. Here’s why consulting a doctor is crucial:

1. Misdiagnosis and Wrong Treatment

Pain and fever are symptoms, not diseases. Instead of masking pain with a pill, a doctor can diagnose the root cause and suggest the best course of treatment. Many conditions share similar symptoms. For example, stomach cramps could indicate gastritis, appendicitis, or kidney stones—not just simple spasms. Conditions like appendicitis, ulcers, infections, and even heart attacks can present with pain that may be mistaken for something minor. Treating symptoms without knowing the underlying cause can delay proper diagnosis and worsen the condition.

2. Risk of Overdose and Side Effects

Meftal Spas: Overuse can lead to gastric ulcers, kidney damage, and severe allergic reactions.
Paracetamol: Excessive intake can cause liver failure, nausea, and even death in extreme cases.

3. Drug Interactions

Certain medications interact negatively with others. For instance:

Meftal Spas may react with anticoagulants(blood thinners) or other NSAIDs, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Paracetamol, when combined with alcohol or certain antibiotics, can lead to liver damage

4. Preventing Long-Term Damage

Frequent use of painkillers can lead to chronic health problems such as ulcers, kidney disease, or liver damage. A doctor can recommend safer alternatives, including lifestyle changes and non-drug treatments.

5. Personalized Dosage and Treatment Plan

A doctor can determine the correct dosage based on your age, medical history, and other health conditions, reducing the risk of side effects.

Alternatives to Painkillers: Safer Ways to Manage Pain

Instead of relying on self-medication, consider these safer ways to manage pain:

For Menstrual Cramps:

Applying a heating pad on the abdomen
Staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine
Gentle yoga and exercise

For Headaches or Fever:

Staying hydrated and resting
Practicing deep breathing and stress management techniques
Using cold or warm compresses

For Muscle or Stomach Pain:

Light stretching or massage
Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint
Maintaining a balanced diet to avoid digestive issues

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following, seek medical attention immediately:

Severe, persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest
Fever lasting more than 3 days
Unusual symptoms like yellowing of the skin (jaundice), unexplained bruising, or difficulty breathing
Pre-existing conditions such as liver or kidney disease, where self-medication can be particularly harmful

Consult Before You Consume

While Meftal Spas and Paracetamol are widely used pain relievers, they are not always the right choice for every situation. Taking medication without proper guidance can lead to unnecessary health risks. If you experience persistent pain, don’t just reach for a pill—reach for a doctor’s advice instead.

Your health is too important to gamble with self-medication. Seek medical attention and choose safer, more effective pain management solutions.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

*This information is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.