Name: Mebeverine
Published: Sep 03, 2023

Mebeverine

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Reviewed on Sep 03, 2023. by Dr Daniel Atkinson GP Clinical Lead Registered with GMC (No. 4624794) Next review due on September 04, 2026.

Last updated on Sep 03, 2023.

Product info

Mebeverine is an antispasmodic medication used to relieve symptoms of IBS.
It works by relaxing the muscles in the intestines, reducing cramps and discomfort.
It may take up to an hour to work, with effects lasting several hours.

Price checker

Prices include:

Express shipping
24 hour shipping by secure courier.
Consultation + Access to our clinicians
Ask our experts anything you like, any time you want.
Total
£37.95

Save £0.00 each order

Mebeverine: essential info
Mebeverine: instructions
Important stuff you need to know
FAQ

FAQ: Mebeverine

Have something specific you want to know? Search our info below, or ask our experts a question if you can’t find what you’re looking for.

How effective is Mebeverine for IBS?

Answer:

A meta-analysis of 22 studies on whether mebeverine is an effective treatment for IBS came to the conclusion that Mebeverine was effective at treating a range of IBS symptoms, at a rate of around 25% better than placebo. The studies included a total of 2000 patients each showing IBS symptoms. Some patients received a dosage of mebeverine for varying weeks while others received a placebo. Some of the key findings from the studies were: ^[1]

Abdominal pain and discomfort were found to be improved in 19 of the 22 studies.

The effects of mebeverine on abnormal bowel habits were evaluated in 5 studies (a total of 381 patients). 4 out of the 5 found it to be effective at reducing abnormal bowel habits, while all 5 also reported it had significant improvement in bloating.

Stool consistency also showed improvement in 5 out of 8 studies.

Does Mebeverine cause constipation?

Answer:

Mebeverine is only suitable for people with IBS as a short-term treatment. Although it doesn't have many side effects, individuals with constipation and an inactive gut should consult their clinician before taking it, as it can worsen these conditions.

If you want to treat constipation, it's better to use a laxative like Fybogel or Senna.

How does Mebeverine compare with other treatments for IBS?

Answer:

Mebeverine is the generic version of Colofac. They both contain the same ingredients at the same concentration. The one you choose is completely up to you, both are effective at treating IBS symptoms.

Other similar treatments to Mebeverine include Fybogel Mebeverine. It contains the same active ingredient, mebeverine hydrochloride, and an additional ingredient, ispaghula husk. Together, both ingredients help prevent spasms and regulate bowel movements.

Buscopan is another popular treatment for IBS. It contains hyoscine butylbromide, which works similarly to mebeverine. It stops spasms, which help relieve abdominal pain and discomfort.

To decide which treatment is best for you, answer a few questions about your health and get recommended personalised treatment options.

Can you drink alcohol with Mebeverine?

Answer:

Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking mebeverine. Alcohol does not affect how well mebeverine works, nor does it increase side effects.

Can I take Mebeverine while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Answer:

If you're pregnant, tell your clinician before taking it. Your clinician might prescribe you an alternative option more suitable for pregnant women.

If you’re breastfeeding, Mebeverine should not be taken. Instead, ask your clinician for a safer alternative.

Is Mebeverine available over the counter?

Answer:

Mebeverine 135mg tablets are available as a Pharmacy medicine. This means that you don’t need a prescription for it, but a pharmacist still needs to ask you a few questions to make sure that it’s right for you to take.

Mebeverine 200mg modified-release capsules are only available with a prescription. This is to make sure it's safe and suitable for you to use. If you want Mebeverine, answer a couple of questions online and our clinicians will decide whether it's suitable for you.

Treated trusted sources:

Daniluk, J., Malecka-Wojciesko, E., Skrzydlo-Radomanska, B., & Rydzewska, G. (2022). The Efficacy of Mebeverine in the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome—A Systematic Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 11(4).