Should You Take Mebeverine Long Term? A Detailed Breakdown

About Mebeverine?

Mebeverine is used to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and related conditions, such as spastic colon or colitis.

It helps with problems like stomach pain, cramps, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. By relaxing the muscles in the gut, Mebeverine reduces discomfort and improves digestion.

Its other brand names are Colofac IBS and Aurobeverine, each containing mebeverine hydrochloride as an active ingredient.

It is available in the form of tablets or slow-release/modified-release capsules. If you have a problem swallowing tablets, Mebeverine also comes in a liquid medicine (unusual form) or as a powder sachet, which is combined with another ingredient called ispaghula husk.

Here at the Ashcroft Pharmacy UK, we offer Mebeverine 135mg tablets for IBS treatment and the management of intestinal/stomach pain.

What is Mebeverine used for?

Mebeverine treats IBS symptoms and other intestinal, digestive, and stomach conditions such as:

• Chronic irritable colon
• Spastic constipation
• Diarrhea 
• Mucous colitis
• Abdominal cramps
• Spastic colitis
• Colon inflammation
• Flatulence (gas/wind)
• Bloating
• Cramps 
• Constipation 
• Urgency or incomplete evacuation  

So, if you have been diagnosed with IBS or any other gastrointestinal condition, consult your doctor before using Mebeverine. You can also buy Mebeverine tablets online after a short online consultation.

Is Long-Term Mebeverine Use Safe?

Mebeverine tablet is generally prescribed for short-term use, typically up to two weeks, to help manage IBS flare-ups. The usual dosage is one 135mg tablet three times a day or one 200mg slow-release capsule twice daily.

Once symptoms improve, it’s recommended to stop taking Mebeverine ibs tablets. If symptoms persist after two weeks or worsen, please consult your doctor.

Never take more than the prescribed dosage of Mebeverine or extend the treatment beyond the recommended duration, as this could lead to adverse Mebeverine side effects and be harmful.

Always follow your GP’s or pharmacist’s guidance for safe use.

What is the role of Mebeverine in treating IBS?

Mebeverine is a spasm-relief drug that works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, specifically the gut or intestine, to reduce cramps and spasms.

It blocks the synthesis of phosphodiesterase enzymes in the gut, helping you control cramping and spasms associated with IBS or other stomach or intestinal conditions.

Unlike other treatments, it doesn’t interfere with normal gut movements, ensuring that the digestive process continues effectively.

This makes it a useful option for treating conditions like IBS, where muscle spasms and abdominal discomfort are common.

What is the working process of Mebeverine?

IBS may be caused by visceral hypersensitivity, environmental triggers, and altered gut motility. Doctors prescribe Mebeverine before food so that it can alleviate symptoms triggered by stress or meals. 

Each Mebeverine tablet contains 135 mg of mebeverine hydrochloride which is a type of antispasmodic drug. Antispasmodics are divided into two categories —- smooth muscle relaxant and antimuscarinics.

Mebeverine hydrochloride comes under the category of smooth muscle relaxant, relaxing your gut muscles and alleviating muscle spasms.

It also reduces wind, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea, making it a fast, effective treatment for IBS patients. 

How long does Mebeverine take to work?

Mebeverine starts working within one hour of taking it, and you will feel better within 1-3 hours. However, consistent use is prescribed for a full, therapeutic effect. In the case of chronic symptoms, it can take a few days to weeks to offer noticeable results. 

You must take Mebeverine 20 minutes before your meals to enhance its absorption and effectiveness, alleviating the symptoms caused by after-food.

As Mebeverine targets your central nervous system, the chances of drowsiness or other side effects are reduced. Moreover, thinking about taking a stronger dose of Mebeverine will harm your health and not offer you quick relief. 

So, always take Mebeverine according to your doctor’s prescription to avoid serious complications. 

Mebeverine side effects

These effects are mild and temporary and settle with time. Besides these, Mebeverine rarely causes allergic reactions, including difficulty breathing, rashes, itching, and swelling of the face, tongue, or lips. If you experience any of these effects, seek emergency help or visit your doctor immediately. 

Its common side effects are:

• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Lightheadedness/dizziness
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Decreased heart rate
• General malaise
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation
• Bloating
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Alternatives to long-term use of Mebeverine

If you want to manage the IBS system consistently, opt for these alternatives rather than taking Mebeverine for the long term:

Lifestyle changes

• Eat a low FODMAP diet (less fermentable carbohydrates) to reduce IBS triggers.
  
  
• Identify specific food intolerances and avoid them.
  
  
• Stay hydrated. 

Stress management 

• Consider cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Practice yoga, regular exercise, or mindfulness.

Other IBS treatment options

• Use peppermint oilcapsules, which are natural antispasmodics.
  
  
• Take antidiarrheal or laxative drugs for diarrhea or constipation management.
  
  
• Improve gut health and digestive issues via probiotics.
   
• Natural remedies 
  
  
• Drink herbal teas such as fennel or chamomile to soothe your gut.

Can you take Buscopan and Mebeverine together?

Although Buscopan and Mebeverine are antispasmodic medications and effectively manage IBS symptoms, you should take them together.

Buscopan (hyoscine butylbromide) and Mebeverine (mebeverine hydrochloride) differ in many ways and if you take them together, they will increase the risk of adverse effects.

So, carefully make a selection between Buscopan and Mebeverine and stick to one IBS treatment at a time. 

If you are unable to decide between IBS treatments, read our Mebeverine vs Buscopan guide to compare both treatments and make an informed decision.

The verdict 

Mebeverine tablet is a reliable treatment for IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders, including stomach pain and intestinal cramps.

It is available in different forms, such as tablets, modified-release capsules, liquids, and powder sachets. However, you must take it only short-term as it can cause serious Mebeverine side effects or complications.

Moreover, always take Mebeverine ibs tablets under medical supervision and never exceed the prescribed dose. 

If you want to buy Mebeverine or colofac ibs online, we at Ashcroft Pharmacy offer Mebeverine 135 mg film-coated tablets to treat IBS.

Just visit to our Mebeverine treatment page, fill in our free consultation form, our prescriber team will review your symptoms, and figure out whether Mebeverine is safe for you. 

After that, we will dispatch your order to your doorstep via our fast, discreet delivery process. 

Author

Resources

Mebeverine Tablets UK Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2315.pdf

https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/mebeverine/

https://bnf.nice.org.uk/treatment-summary/antispasmodics.html

Mebeverine FAQs

Can I take Mebeverine for life?

You should not take Mebeverine for life or long time. Mebeverine is prescribed during flare-ups of IBS symptoms. Once your symptoms are alleviated (usually take 2 weeks), stop taking Mebeverine. 

Can Mebeverine cause kidney problems?

Mebeverine is safe and does not cause kidney problems. However, patients with pre-existing kidney problems must consult a doctor before taking Mebeverine, as it will enhance the risk of serious effects. 

What is the long-term treatment for IBS?

Long-term treatment for IBS includes dietary changes (low FODMAP diet), stress management, regular exercise, fiber supplements, probiotics, proper sleep, and medications such as laxatives or antispasmodics. You must consult your doctor for tailored advice or regular follow-ups. 

Is IBS a lifetime condition?

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a lifetime or chronic condition; however, the severity of symptoms vary over time. Although there is no cure, proper medication, lifestyle changes, and a balanced diet can enhance the quality of life.

Can you take Buscopan every day for IBS?

You should not take Buscopan every day or longer than 2 weeks for IBS symptoms management unless your doctor tells you to. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms get worse or have not improved after 2 weeks.