Mebeverine (Duspatalin): what it is for and how to take it

Mebeverine (Duspatalin): what it is for and how to take it

Illnesses

Mebeverine is an antispasmodic indicated for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, as it acts directly on the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, relieving symptoms of pain and abdominal cramps, without affecting normal bowel movements.

This remedy can be found in pharmacies or drugstores in the form of extended-release capsules containing 200 mg of mebeverine hydrochloride, with the reference name Duspatalin, or as a similar Rubenti.

Mebeverine hydrochloride should be used under the advice of a gastroenterologist, with individualized doses and for the duration of treatment recommended by the doctor.

Woman taking medicine capsule with a glass of water

What is it for

Mebeverine is indicated for the treatment of:

  • Irritable bowel syndrome;
  • Intestinal spasms caused by other diseases.

This remedy helps to relieve abdominal pain and cramps, as it reduces intestinal spasms by promoting relaxation of the smooth muscles of the intestine.

How long does Duspatalin take to take effect?

The effect of mebeverine (Duspatalin or Rubenti) can be noticed within the first 24 hours after starting its use.

However, the response to treatment may take around one or two weeks, which varies depending on diet and individual response to treatment, and should always be assessed by the prescribing doctor.

Read too: Irritable bowel diet: what to eat, what to avoid and menu

How to use

The mebeverine capsule should be taken orally, with a glass of water, preferably 20 minutes before breakfast or dinner, or according to medical advice.

The normally recommended dose for adults is 1 capsule of mebeverine 200 mg, twice a day, that is, in the morning and at night.

If you forget to take a dose, you should skip the forgotten tablet and take the next capsule at the normally scheduled time. You should not take two capsules at the same time to make up for a forgotten dose.

How long should I take

The duration of treatment with mebeverine must be guided by the gastroenterologist and is generally done when there are acute attacks of irritable bowel syndrome.

In general, it is recommended to consult your doctor again if, after 2 weeks of treatment, your symptoms have not improved or have worsened.

Read too: Irritable bowel treatment: diet, medicine and other therapies

Possible side effects

The most common side effects of mebeverine are hives, itchy skin, facial swelling, angioedema, or red patches on the skin called a rash.

Read too: Angioedema: what it is, symptoms, causes and treatment

In addition, serious allergic reactions may occur with symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, throat and tongue. In these cases, you should go to the emergency room immediately. Know how to identify the symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Who shouldn’t use

Mebeverine should not be used by children or people who are allergic to mebeverine hydrochloride or any other component of the capsules.

During pregnancy or breastfeeding, mebeverine should only be used if indicated by the doctor, after evaluating the benefits of the treatment for the woman and possible risks to the baby.