Can I take Norifam (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) on the last day of menstruation?

Can You Take Norifam (NSAID) on the Last Day of Menstruation?

Yes, you can safely take Norifam (an NSAID) on the last day of menstruation—NSAIDs are effective throughout the menstrual period and are specifically indicated for menstrual pain relief during active bleeding days. 1, 2, 3

Evidence for NSAID Use During Menstruation

NSAIDs work by blocking prostaglandin production, which is the primary cause of menstrual cramping, and they remain effective throughout all days of menstruation including the final days. 2, 3

• NSAIDs reduce menstrual prostaglandin levels to normal when given during menstruation, providing pain relief in approximately 80% of women with primary dysmenorrhea 2
• Clinical trials demonstrate NSAIDs are significantly more effective than placebo for menstrual pain relief (OR 7.91,95% CI 5.65-11.09) 3
• NSAIDs are also effective for reducing heavy menstrual bleeding when taken during active menstruation 4

Optimal Timing and Duration

NSAIDs should be taken during the days of menstrual bleeding when symptoms are present, typically for 2-3 days, which can include the last day of your period. 2

• Treatment duration of 5-7 days during menstruation is considered safe and effective 5
• NSAIDs can be initiated on any day of menstruation when pain occurs, including the final days 2, 3
• Self-medication patterns show women commonly use NSAIDs throughout their menstrual cycle as needed for symptom control 6

Safety Considerations

Use NSAIDs at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed to control symptoms. 1

• Adverse effects occur more commonly with NSAIDs than placebo (OR 1.52,95% CI 1.09-2.12), including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, stomach pain, and indigestion 1, 3
• Do not use NSAIDs for more than 10 days without consulting a healthcare provider 1
• Avoid NSAIDs if you have a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding problems, kidney or liver disease, or are taking anticoagulants 1

Contraindications During Menstruation

Do not take NSAIDs on the last day of menstruation if you are pregnant or could be pregnant (beyond 20 weeks gestation). 1

• NSAIDs after 20 weeks of pregnancy may harm the unborn baby and should not be used after 30 weeks 1
• If menstruation is unusually light or you have missed periods, consider pregnancy testing before NSAID use 1

Common Pitfall to Avoid

The most critical error is assuming NSAIDs are only effective at the beginning of menstruation—they work throughout the entire menstrual period as long as prostaglandin-mediated pain is present. 2, 3

• Approximately 18% of women may not respond to NSAIDs for dysmenorrhea, which represents true NSAID resistance rather than timing issues 7
• If pain persists despite appropriate NSAID use throughout menstruation, consider alternative diagnoses such as endometriosis or other pelvic pathology 2