From the FDA Drug Label
In patients with primary dysmenorrhea, ibuprofen tablets have been shown to reduce elevated levels of prostaglandin activity in the menstrual fluid and to reduce resting and active intrauterine pressure, as well as the frequency of uterine contractions. Dysmenorrhea: For the treatment of dysmenorrhea, beginning with the earliest onset of such pain, ibuprofen tablets should be given in a dose of 400 mg every 4 hours as necessary for the relief of pain.
The treatment option for dysmenorrhea is ibuprofen tablets. The recommended dose is 400 mg every 4 hours as necessary for the relief of pain, starting from the earliest onset of pain. 1 1
- Key points:
- Ibuprofen tablets reduce prostaglandin activity and uterine pressure.
- The dose is 400 mg every 4 hours as needed.
- Treatment should start at the earliest onset of pain.
From the Research
Treatment options for dysmenorrhea should prioritize nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen as first-line treatments, due to their efficacy in reducing prostaglandin production and alleviating menstrual pain, as supported by studies such as 2.
Medication Approaches
- NSAIDs: ibuprofen (400-800 mg every 6-8 hours) or naproxen sodium (220-550 mg twice daily) are effective for mild to moderate menstrual pain, as shown in studies like 3 and 4.
- Hormonal contraceptives: birth control pills, patches, rings, or hormonal IUDs can reduce menstrual pain by thinning the uterine lining and reducing prostaglandin levels, as discussed in 5.
Non-Medication Approaches
- Applying heat to the lower abdomen (using a heating pad or warm bath)
- Regular exercise
- Stress reduction techniques
- Dietary changes (reducing caffeine, salt, and alcohol)
- Supplements like vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium may also provide some benefit, although evidence is limited.
Key Considerations
- Start taking NSAIDs 1-2 days before your period begins and continue through the first few days of bleeding for optimal effect.
- If pain is severe or unresponsive to these treatments, consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions like endometriosis or fibroids that might require different treatment approaches, as suggested by 2.