Mebeverine

Mebeverine is an antispasmodic medicine for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It relaxes the muscles in the wall of your gut, easing the stomach cramps, pain and bloating that IBS can cause. Each tablet contains 135mg, taken three times a day before meals. At MedsRus, a UK prescriber reviews a short online consultation before supplying it.

Mebeverine at a glance

How does mebeverine work?

In IBS, the muscles in your bowel can tighten (spasm) more than usual, causing cramping pain, bloating and changes in your bowel habits. Mebeverine works directly on these muscles to relax them, without affecting normal bowel movement. Because it acts on the gut rather than the whole body, side effects are uncommon.

How to take mebeverine

• Take one 135mg tablet three times a day, ideally 20 minutes before a meal.
• Swallow it whole with water; don't chew it.
• If you miss a dose, skip it and take the next one at the usual time. Don't take two at once.

Many people feel some relief within hours of their first dose. If your symptoms haven't improved after 2 weeks, speak to your GP or pharmacist.

Side effects

Mebeverine is usually well tolerated. Rarely, it can cause:

• a skin rash, itching or hives;
• signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as a swollen face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing. Stop taking it and get urgent help if this happens.

Who shouldn't take mebeverine?

MedsRus supplies mebeverine to adults aged 18 to 65. Don't take it if you're allergic to mebeverine. Speak to a doctor first if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, have porphyria, or have been told you can't tolerate some sugars (the tablets may contain lactose or sucrose).

See your GP before treating IBS-like symptoms yourself if:

• your symptoms are new and you're over 40;
• you have blood in your poo, unexplained weight loss, or a lump in your tummy;
• your bowel habits have changed for 6 weeks or more;
• you have a family history of bowel or ovarian cancer.

Other ways to help IBS

• Keep a food and symptom diary to spot triggers.
• Eat regular meals and don't rush them.
• Cut down on caffeine, alcohol, fizzy drinks and very fatty or spicy food.
• Manage stress, which can make symptoms worse.
• Your GP may suggest a low-FODMAP diet with a dietitian's help.

See also IBS treatment and Colofac IBS, which contains the same active ingredient.

Mebeverine FAQs

How long does mebeverine take to work?

Many people notice relief within a few hours. If it hasn't helped after 2 weeks, speak to your GP or pharmacist.

Should I take mebeverine before or after food?

About 20 minutes before meals, three times a day.

Is mebeverine the same as Colofac?

Yes. Colofac is a brand of mebeverine. Both contain the same active ingredient.

Can I take mebeverine long term?

Many people take it for as long as their symptoms need it, or just during flare-ups. Have your IBS reviewed by your GP if you need it regularly.

Does mebeverine cause constipation or diarrhoea?

It isn't expected to. It relaxes gut muscle without changing normal bowel movement.

Further reading

• IBS treatment
• Colofac IBS

Sources:

• NHS: Mebeverine
• NHS: Irritable bowel syndrome