10 Best Medicines for Menstrual Cramps in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by OB-GYN
Menstrual cramps are a monthly struggle for many Filipinas, often affecting work, school, sleep, and daily routines. Finding the right medicine can make a major difference, especially when the pain becomes intense or recurring. With so many options available online, choosing the best medicines for menstrual cramps in the Philippines can feel overwhelming, whether you're dealing with mild discomfort or severe dysmenorrhea.
In this guide, we highlight the best medicines for menstrual cramps available on Shopee and Lazada to help you find safe and accessible options. With expert insights from Obstetrician-Gynecologist, Dr. Chona Fabina-Madarang, you can feel confident that each recommendation aligns with proper menstrual pain management, no matter your symptoms.
Quick List - Top Medicines for Menstrual Cramps
RiteMED
Provides Affordable Pain Relief for Headache, Toothache and Menstrual Cramps
Dr. Chona Fabian-Madarang is a private practitioner specializing in women's health. She is always on the lookout for new innovations and inventions.
Sharrys is a writer for lifestyle and trendy articles, helping readers make smart choices. She is all about delivering high-quality content that keeps up with the latest trends. When she’s not researching her next write-up, you’ll find her reading a good book, binge-watching documentaries, or catching up on some much-needed sleep at home.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
What Symptoms Suggest That Your Period Pain Isn’t Normal?
While mild discomfort is common during menstruation, certain symptoms may signal that your period pain needs medical attention. If your cramps are intense enough to interrupt school, work, or daily activities, this may indicate an underlying issue beyond typical dysmenorrhea. You should also take note of red flags such as pain that worsens each month, heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, or cramps that don’t improve even after taking over-the-counter medicines.
Severe nausea, fever, dizziness, or pain that begins days before your period and continues long after it ends may also point to conditions like endometriosis or fibroids. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How to Choose Medicines for Menstrual Cramps – Buying Guide
Finding the right medicine for menstrual cramps can feel confusing, especially with so many options available online. To help you decide, here’s a quick guide to choosing the best pain relief based on your symptoms, sensitivity, and comfort level each cycle.
Look for FDA-Approved Medicines and Read Labels on Side Effects and Interactions
When choosing medicines for menstrual cramps, always check if the product is FDA-approved, as this ensures it has been evaluated for safety, quality, and proper formulation. Reading the label allows you to understand the correct dosing frequency, which helps prevent accidental overuse and reduces the risk of side effects.
It’s also important to review potential drug interactions, especially if you are taking other medications such as antihypertensives, anticoagulants, or maintenance therapies. By paying attention to these details, you can select a medication that provides effective relief while maintaining your overall health.
Identify the Type of Medicine That Targets Menstrual Pain
Choosing the right type of medicine starts with understanding the intensity and pattern of your menstrual discomfort. Knowing your options allows you to match the right medication to your symptoms for safer and more effective pain control.
For Menstrual Cramps: Take NSAIDs Like Ibuprofen or Mefenamic Acid
NSAIDs block prostaglandins, making them ideal for women with strong cramps seeking fast relief, especially when taken at the first sign of pain.
NSAIDs work by blocking prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that trigger uterine contractions and inflammation, making them the most effective first-line treatment for typical menstrual cramps. When taken at the start of discomfort, they significantly reduce pain intensity and shorten the duration of symptoms. Many women find relief within 30 minutes to an hour, especially when using consistent dosing as directed on the label. These medicines are widely accessible and offer reliable relief for moderate to severe dysmenorrhea.
For Mild Pain or If You Can’t Take NSAIDs: Choose Paracetamol
Paracetamol is a gentler alternative for people with NSAID allergies, gastric sensitivities, or contraindications such as asthma or certain cardiovascular issues. Although it does not block prostaglandins as strongly, it effectively reduces low-grade uterine discomfort and general body aches during menstruation. It is also less likely to irritate the stomach, making it suitable for teens or individuals with sensitive digestive systems. When used correctly, paracetamol provides safe and steady relief for mild menstrual pain.
For Severe, Hard-to-Manage Pain: Consider Stronger Pain Relievers Under Medical Guidance
For women experiencing debilitating cramps unresponsive to OTC medications, doctors may prescribe stronger analgesics for short-term use. These may include opioid-based medications, which act on the central nervous system to block intense pain signals. However, they can cause drowsiness or lethargy, so they must be taken strictly under medical supervision. If you frequently need stronger medications, this may signal an underlying condition like endometriosis, and a consultation with a gynecologist is strongly recommended.
Check the Correct Dosage and Safe Intake Frequency Each Cycle
Always follow the recommended dosage on the label or as advised by your doctor to avoid taking more than your body can safely handle. It’s best to take your medicine as soon as discomfort begins, since early relief can prevent cramps from worsening. In more severe cycles, you may need an additional dose, but only within the allowed frequency indicated for that medication. Once your pain has eased, stop taking further doses to avoid unnecessary side effects.
Consider Hormonal Options if OTC Medicines Are Not Enough
If over-the-counter pain relievers no longer provide enough relief, hormonal options like oral contraceptive pills may help manage recurring menstrual pain. These pills work by regulating your menstrual cycle, which can reduce the intensity and frequency of cramps over time. They’re especially useful for those with dysmenorrhea linked to hormonal imbalance or heavy periods. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting hormonal medication to ensure it’s safe and suitable for your needs.
10 Best Medicines for Menstrual Cramps Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FDA Approved | Active Ingredient Type | Dosage | Side Effects and Interactions | |||||
1 | RiteMED Mefenamic Acid Tablets | | Provides Affordable Pain Relief for Headache, Toothache and Menstrual Cramps | Mefenamic Acid | 250 mg | Nausea、Drowsiness、Diarrhea、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs | ||
2 | Opella Buscopan Venus | | Provides Rapid Comfort With Hyoscine N-Butylbromide and Paracetamol Combo | Hyoscine N-butylbromide、Paracetamol | 10 mg / 500 mg | Drowsiness、Dry Mouth or Thirst、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs | ||
3 | Unilab Alaxan FR | | Dual-Action Formula for Long-Lasting Relief From Pain and Inflammation | Ibuprofen、Paracetamol | 200 mg / 325 mg | Nausea、Drowsiness、Indigestion、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs | ||
4 | Unilab Medicol Advance | | Ease Pain and Inflammation With This NSAID | Ibuprofen | 200 mg | Nausea、Indigestion、Headache、Skin Reaction、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs | ||
5 | Southstar Drug Mefenamic Acid | | Budget-Friendly Pain Relief for Everyday Aches | Mefenamic Acid | 500 mg | Nausea、Drowsiness、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs、Dizziness、Heartburn | ||
6 | TGP Megalin 250mg | | Affordable Mefenamic Acid for Pain and Inflammation | Mefenamic Acid | 250 mg | Nausea、Drowsiness、Kidney Issues with Prolonged Use、Diarrhea | ||
7 | Kenvue Tylenol Extended Release Tablets | | Gentle and Dependable Pain Management From a Trusted Brand | Paracetamol | 650 mg | Nausea、Allergic Reactions、Liver Damange、Vomitting、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs | ||
8 | TGP Hyoscine Butylbromide | | Budget-Friendly Targeted Relief for Unpredictable Tummy Discomfort | Hyoscine N-butylbromide | 10 mg | Dry Mouth or Thirst、Dizziness、Constipation、Can Intensify the Effect of Antidepressants and Antihistamines | ||
9 | Watsons Ibuprofen | | Ease Pain and Inflammation With This NSAID | Ibuprofen | 200 mg | Nausea、Drowsiness、Indigestion、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs | ||
10 | Unilab Dolfenal | | Targets Pain at Its Source With Mefenamic Acid | Mefenamic Acid | 250 mg | Nausea、Drowsiness、Diarrhea、Skin Reaction、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs | ||
Provides Affordable Pain Relief for Headache, Toothache and Menstrual Cramps
- Provides relief for different pains like headache, toothache, muscle ache
- Relieves menstrual cramps
- Made by Ritemed, a trusted and budget-friendly medicine brand
Reviews mention:
Plenty of customers find this to be easy-to-swallow and effective for pain relief. Many users rely on it heavily for those sudden, intense aches, like a bad toothache or menstrual cramps. In fact, those who have used it confirm it's effective for making those painful moments much more manageable.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Mefenamic Acid |
| Dosage | 250 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Nausea、Drowsiness、Diarrhea、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs |
Provides Rapid Comfort With Hyoscine N-Butylbromide and Paracetamol Combo
- Relieves pain with a targeted, dual-action formula
- Ease tummy discomfort of period days
- Acts quickly to address sudden menstrual cramps
Reviews mention:
Many consider this to be a staple when their period days roll around. People comment about how quickly it seems to kick in right when you need it most. Many users feel a significant pain relief especially when dysmenorrhea strikes.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Hyoscine N-butylbromide、Paracetamol |
| Dosage | 10 mg / 500 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Drowsiness、Dry Mouth or Thirst、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs |
Dual-Action Formula for Long-Lasting Relief From Pain and Inflammation
Features and benefits:
- Combines ibuprofen and paracetamol for the relief of mild to moderately severe aches
- Eases joint, muscle, and back pain as well as tension headaches in as fast as 15 minutes
- Targets pain at its source with anti-inflammatory action
- Provides trusted, reliable relief as an FDA-registered medicine from Unilab
Reviews mention:
Buyers say it is an effective medicine for joint and body pain, from mild aches to more intense discomfort. Many note that it provides fast and dependable relief. They also appreciate it as a safe, budget-friendly option from a trusted brand.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Ibuprofen、Paracetamol |
| Dosage | 200 mg / 325 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Nausea、Drowsiness、Indigestion、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs |
Ease Pain and Inflammation With This NSAID
Features and benefits:
- Contains 200mg of ibuprofen to relieve mild to moderate pain
- Acts as an NSAID for reducing inflammation in joints and muscles
- Relieves pain from headaches, menstrual cramps, dental pain, and post-operative discomfort
- Comes in easy-to-take tablets for fast, convenient relief
Reviews mention:
Customers share that this tablet works quickly for headaches, stomach discomfort, and migraines. Many also note that it’s effective for period pain and reliable to keep on hand for sudden flare-ups. Users appreciate how easily it can be taken, making it a go-to option when pain hits.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Ibuprofen |
| Dosage | 200 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Nausea、Indigestion、Headache、Skin Reaction、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs |
Budget-Friendly Pain Relief for Everyday Aches
Features and benefits:
- Targets moderate pain, including headache and menstrual pain like dysmenorrhea
- Acts as an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) to reduce inflammation and fever
- Provides a widely trusted and accessible pain relief option
Reviews mention:
A lot of users consider this a trusted medication because it's so reliable when they need fast relief. People say it's especially great for tackling stubborn headaches and getting rid of menstrual cramps quickly. Plus, reviewers appreciate that the tablets are easy to swallow and that the delivery options make getting them very convenient.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Mefenamic Acid |
| Dosage | 500 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Nausea、Drowsiness、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs、Dizziness、Heartburn |
Affordable Mefenamic Acid for Pain and Inflammation
Features and benefits:
- Relieves mild to moderate pain with 250mg of mefenamic acid
- Treats pain and inflammation at the same time as an NSAID
- Addresses discomfort from headaches to menstrual pain in convenient capsule form
- Provides an affordable alternative to branded medications
Reviews mention:
Customers say it is surprisingly affordable compared to big brands, while still providing fast and effective relief. Many repurchase it because they rely on its consistent effectiveness for pain relief. They also find it easy to swallow in capsule form.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Mefenamic Acid |
| Dosage | 250 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Nausea、Drowsiness、Kidney Issues with Prolonged Use、Diarrhea |
Gentle and Dependable Pain Management From a Trusted Brand
- Sustains relief with a long-lasting, 8-hour release formula
- Has a higher dosage than standard versions
- A non-irritating alternative to NSAIDs
- Comes from a trusted, globally recognized brand
Reviews mention:
Plenty of users have found this to be a key item to keep on hand just in case sudden aches or pains show up. People are happy with the way the tablet works, managing to address pain for hours at a time. Customers who have used it for different issues, from flu to general body pain, report a strong sense of relief.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Paracetamol |
| Dosage | 650 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Nausea、Allergic Reactions、Liver Damange、Vomitting、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs |
Budget-Friendly Targeted Relief for Unpredictable Tummy Discomfort
- Relieves painful stomach spasms
- Focuses on instant stomach relief
- A budget-friendly alternative to branded options
Reviews mention:
Many buyers have happily switched to this brand because of the amazing price point. They often point out that even though it’s much cheaper than the leading brand, it performs just as well for instant relief. Folks who use it regularly often carry one with them as a quick-fix emergency pain reliever.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Hyoscine N-butylbromide |
| Dosage | 10 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Dry Mouth or Thirst、Dizziness、Constipation、Can Intensify the Effect of Antidepressants and Antihistamines |
Ease Pain and Inflammation With This NSAID
- Contains 200mg of ibuprofen to relieve mild to moderate pain
- Acts as an NSAID for reducing inflammation in joints and muscles
- Relieves pain from headaches, menstrual cramps, dental pain, and post-operative discomfort
- Comes in easy-to-take tablets for fast, convenient relief
Reviews mention:
Customers share that this tablet works quickly for headaches, stomach discomfort, and migraines. Many also note that it’s effective for period pain and reliable to keep on hand for sudden flare-ups. Users appreciate how easily it can be taken, making it a go-to option when pain hits.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Ibuprofen |
| Dosage | 200 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Nausea、Drowsiness、Indigestion、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs |
Targets Pain at Its Source With Mefenamic Acid
Features and benefits:
- Handles severe pain from cramps, dental, or joint aches with 250mg of mefenamic acid
- Treats pain and inflammation simultaneously as an NSAID
- Relieves menstrual cramps and discomfort effectively with a film-coated tablet
- Comes from a trusted Filipino pharmaceutical company for reliable pain relief
Reviews mention:
Reviewers often turn to this tablet for severe aches, including intense headaches and dental pain. Many trust its effectiveness and the reliability of a trusted company like Unilab. They frequently choose it when they need strong, dependable relief.
| FDA Approved | |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Type | Mefenamic Acid |
| Dosage | 250 mg |
| Side Effects and Interactions | Nausea、Drowsiness、Diarrhea、Skin Reaction、May Enhance the Effect of Blood Thinning Drugs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Chona.
Are Pain Relievers Safe for Teens Experiencing Cramps for the First Time?
Can Meds Be Combined With Heat Therapy or Lifestyle Measures?
Yes, pain medications can be safely combined with heat therapy and lifestyle interventions for better relief. Heat improves blood flow to the pelvic area, helping to relax the uterine muscles, while the medicine controls inflammation and pain signals. Pairing medications with activities such as yoga, walking, or relaxation breathing can further reduce tension and enhance overall comfort.
How Often Is It Safe to Use Pain Meds Each Cycle?
It is generally safe to take pain relievers at the onset of cramps, when prostaglandin levels begin to rise. Some individuals with moderate to severe dysmenorrhea may require a second dose on the same day if symptoms persist. Once the pain subsides, further dosing is no longer necessary, and prolonged or excessive use should be avoided without medical guidance.
Do Caffeine, Alcohol, or Diet Worsen or Improve Cramps?
Caffeine and alcohol may worsen cramps because they can constrict or dilate blood vessels, increasing pelvic discomfort and fluid retention. Diets high in processed foods, excess salt, or sugar may also intensify inflammation, making cramps feel more severe. On the other hand, balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids may help support hormone balance and reduce painful symptoms.
Are Herbal Remedies Evidence-Based and Safe?
Discover More Essentials for Managing Menstrual Pain
If you’re looking for additional ways to stay comfortable throughout your cycle, explore our expert-reviewed guides on trusted period care essentials in the Philippines. These resources cover helpful tools and supportive products that can ease discomfort, promote relaxation, and make your monthly routine more manageable.
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Medicines for Menstrual Cramps
No. 1: RiteMED ｜Mefenamic Acid Tablets
No. 2: Opella｜Buscopan Venus
No. 3: Unilab｜Alaxan FR
No. 4: Unilab｜Medicol Advance
No. 5: Southstar Drug｜Mefenamic Acid
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Most ViewedFeatured Rankings Similar to Medicines for menstrual cramps
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