Mebeverine - Common brands: Colofac, Colofac IBS, Aurobeverine

What mebeverine is for

Mebeverine is used to relieve stomach cramps, spasms and pain.

It can help if you have issues with your digestive system, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

How to take mebeverine

Mebeverine usually comes as tablets that you take 3 times a day or capsules that you take 2 times a day. It also comes as a liquid that you swallow (oral solution).

How much you need to take and for how long depends on why you're taking it.

When taking mebeverine:

• swallow tablets or capsules whole with some water
• use the spoon that comes with the liquid medicine to help you measure the right dose
• try to take it 20 minutes before a meal

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.

If you miss a dose of mebeverine

If you forget to take a dose of mebeverine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose.

If it's nearly time or your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a missed dose.

If you take too much mebeverine

Taking an extra dose of mebeverine is unlikely to cause problems, but it's important to get medical advice if you take too much as it can sometimes be dangerous.

Side effects of mebeverine

Like all medicines, mebeverine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Side effects of mebeverine include:

• a skin rash
• itchy or red skin – redness can be harder to see on brown or black skin

Mebeverine does not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery.

Serious side effects

Mebeverine can sometimes cause serious side effects, although most of them are rare.

Possible serious side effects of mebeverine include:

• an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash and difficulty breathing

Who can and cannot take mebeverine

Most adults and children aged 10 years or over can take mebeverine.

Mebeverine is not suitable for some people. For example, it may not be suitable if:

• you've had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from mebeverine before
• you have a condition called paralytic ileus, which affects the muscles in your gut
• you have liver or kidney problems
• you've been told to avoid foods and medicines containing sucrose, a type of sugar

Before taking mebeverine, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions.

Breastfeeding and mebeverine

You can usually take mebeverine while breastfeeding, but check with a pharmacist or doctor first. Your baby may need to be monitored for any side effects.

If you're taking mebeverine when breastfeeding, speak to a healthcare professional or call NHS 111 if you have any concerns about your baby.

Pregnancy and mebeverine

Tell your doctor if you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant. You may be able to take mebeverine during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Alternatively, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or a different type of medicine for irritable bowel syndrome.

Find out more about taking mebeverine during pregnancy on the Bumps (Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy) website

Taking mebeverine with other medicines, food and drink

There are potentially some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with mebeverine.

Before taking mebeverine, tell your doctor if you're taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

Food, drink and alcohol with mebeverine

You can eat and drink as normal while taking mebeverine.

But continue to follow any dietary advice from your doctor to help with your symptoms.