What is alspas 20mg/500mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of dicyclomine and mefenamic acid used to treat abdominal cramps, menstrual pain, and gastrointestinal spasms. It works by relaxing gut muscles and reducing inflammation.

Generic Name: Dicyclomine + Mefenamic Acid
Manufacturer: Allied Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Form: Allopathy
Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 alspas 20mg/500mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा डाइसाइक्लोमिन और मेफेनैमिक एसिड का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग पेट की ऐंठन, मासिक धर्म के दर्द और आंतों की ऐंठन के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह आंतों की मांसपेशियों को आराम देकर और सूजन को कम करके काम करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मुँह सूखना, चक्कर आना, नींद आना, जी मिचलाना, पेट में जलन और कब्ज शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इनमें पेट में रक्तस्राव, गुर्दे की समस्या और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हो सकती है।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को अपने डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। इसे भोजन या दूध के साथ लें ताकि पेट में जलन न हो। इस दवा के साथ शराब न लें। अगर आपको चक्कर या नींद आती है तो वाहन न चलाएँ। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💊 alspas 20mg/500mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)","description":"Helps relieve abdominal cramps and pain associated with IBS by reducing gut spasms and inflammation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)","description":"Reduces menstrual pain and cramps by relaxing uterine muscles and decreasing prostaglandin production.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Gastrointestinal spasms","description":"Used to treat spasms of the stomach and intestines that cause pain and discomfort.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain","description":"Provides short-term relief of pain and inflammation in muscles and joints.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Biliary colic","description":"Sometimes used to relieve pain from gallbladder spasms, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Urinary tract spasms","description":"May be used off-label to reduce bladder spasms, but not routinely recommended.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Irritable bowel syndrome

Also treats: Primary dysmenorrhea, Gastrointestinal spasms, Mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)	Dicyclomine + Mefenamic Acid
Brand Name	Almefkem Spas 10mg/250mg Tablet
Manufacturer	Allied Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Packaging / Form	Varies by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic Class	PAIN ANALGESICS
Action Class	Antispasmodic + NSAID
Route of Administration	Oral
Storage	Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life	24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO Guideline	Not established from the available information.
ICMR Guideline	Not established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1

Take this medicine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

2

Stay well hydrated throughout the day.

3

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

4

Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

5

Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.

6

Report any unusual bleeding or bruising immediately.

7

Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel dizzy or drowsy.

8

Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney or liver disease.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅

Abdominal cramps

This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.

Likely Use

✅

Menstrual cramps

This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.

Likely Use

❌

Fever

This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.

Not Primary

❌

Headache

This medicine is not a primary headache treatment.

Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionDicyclomine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Mefenamic acid is also absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, but absorption may be delayed if taken with food. Specific bioavailability data for the combination tablet is not established from the available information.

DistributionDicyclomine is distributed widely throughout the body, including the central nervous system. Mefenamic acid is highly bound to plasma proteins and may cross the placenta and enter breast milk. The exact volume of distribution for the combination is not established from the available information.

Protein BindingMefenamic acid is approximately 90% bound to plasma proteins. Dicyclomine is also highly protein-bound, but exact percentage is not established from the available information.

MetabolismDicyclomine is metabolized in the liver, primarily by oxidation and conjugation. Mefenamic acid is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP2C9. The exact metabolic pathways for the combination are not fully established from the available information.

Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of dicyclomine is approximately 1.8 hours. The elimination half-life of mefenamic acid is approximately 2 to 4 hours. The half-life may be prolonged in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.

ExcretionDicyclomine and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine and feces. Mefenamic acid metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. The exact excretion profile of the combination is not established from the available information.

BioavailabilityThe bioavailability of dicyclomine is approximately 50% to 60% due to first-pass metabolism. The bioavailability of mefenamic acid is approximately 80% to 90%. The bioavailability of the combination tablet is not established from the available information.

Onset of ActionThe onset of action for dicyclomine is within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration. The onset of analgesic effect for mefenamic acid is within 1 to 2 hours. The combined onset of action is typically within 1 to 2 hours.

Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of dicyclomine are reached within 1 to 2 hours. Peak plasma concentrations of mefenamic acid are reached within 2 to 4 hours. The peak plasma time for the combination is not established from the available information.

Duration of ActionThe duration of action for dicyclomine is approximately 4 to 6 hours. The duration of action for mefenamic acid is approximately 4 to 6 hours. The combined duration of action is typically 4 to 6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with different mechanisms. Dicyclomine is an anticholinergic and antispasmodic agent that blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to relaxation of smooth muscle and reduction of spasms. Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes, thereby decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are mediators of pain, inflammation, and fever. Together, they provide relief from both spasm and inflammation.

Mechanism Steps

1

Dicyclomine blocks muscarinic receptors: Dicyclomine binds to muscarinic acetylcholine receptors on smooth muscle cells in the gut, preventing acetylcholine from stimulating muscle contractions.

2

Smooth muscle relaxation: Blockade of muscarinic receptors leads to relaxation of the gastrointestinal smooth muscle, relieving spasms and associated pain.

3

Mefenamic acid inhibits cyclooxygenase: Mefenamic acid inhibits the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which are responsible for converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins.

4

Reduced prostaglandin synthesis: Decreased prostaglandin production reduces inflammation, pain, and fever.

5

Combined symptomatic relief: The combined actions of dicyclomine and mefenamic acid provide relief from both spasm and inflammation, addressing abdominal pain and cramps.

💡 How to Take alspas 20mg/500mg tablet

Strength: Each tablet contains dicyclomine hydrochloride 20 mg and mefenamic acid 500 mg.

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.

3Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

4Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless advised by your doctor.

5Take at evenly spaced intervals as directed.

6Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

7If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.

Dosage Information

Adult Dosage	The usual adult dose of this medicine is one tablet taken orally two to four times daily, depending on the severity of symptoms and the condition being treated. The maximum recommended daily dose is typically four tablets in 24 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Pediatric Dosage	Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly Dosage	Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially anticholinergic effects such as confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal Impairment	Use with caution in patients with kidney impairment. Mefenamic acid can worsen kidney function. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic Impairment	Use with caution in patients with liver impairment. Dicyclomine and mefenamic acid are metabolized in the liver. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Maximum Daily Dose	The maximum recommended daily dose is typically four tablets (80 mg dicyclomine and 2000 mg mefenamic acid) in 24 hours. Do not exceed this dose without medical advice.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food

Take with meals

Reduces stomach upset.

Alcohol

Avoid

Increases risk of stomach bleeding and drowsiness.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed

→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

💡 Continue with the regular schedule.

📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed

→ Skip the missed dose.

💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of alspas 20mg/500mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))

Sip water frequently or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if persistent.

Dizziness (Common (5-10%))

Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

Drowsiness (Common (5-10%))

Avoid alcohol and activities requiring alertness. Consult doctor if severe.

Nausea (Common (5-10%))

Take with food or milk to reduce nausea. Consult doctor if persistent.

Heartburn (Common (5-10%))

Take with food. Avoid lying down immediately after taking. Consult doctor if severe.

Constipation (Common (5-10%))

Increase fiber and fluid intake. Consult doctor if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Gastrointestinal bleeding (Rare (<0.1%))

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain.

Kidney problems (Rare (<0.1%))

Report decreased urine output, swelling, or fatigue to your doctor immediately.

Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))

Seek emergency care if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Blood disorders (Rare (<0.1%))

Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor promptly.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Liver damage

Seek medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue.

Severe skin reactions

Stop the medicine and seek immediate medical help if you develop a severe rash, blisters, or peeling skin.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug	Severity	Effect
Warfarin	Major
Other NSAIDs	Major
Anticholinergics	Major
Lithium	Moderate
Methotrexate	Moderate
ACE inhibitors	Moderate
ARBs	Moderate
Diuretics	Moderate
Antacids	Minor
Corticosteroids	Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

Warfarin
Other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen)
Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, antihistamines)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

Lithium
Methotrexate
ACE inhibitors and ARBs
Diuretics

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and may worsen drowsiness and dizziness caused by dicyclomine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to dicyclomine or mefenamic acid","Active peptic ulcer or history of recurrent ulcers","Severe kidney disease","Severe liver disease","Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease)","Severe heart failure","Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery perioperative period","Third trimester of pregnancy","Children under 12 years (unless directed by a specialist)","Myasthenia gravis","Glaucoma (narrow-angle)","Urinary retention"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.","Avoid alcohol and other NSAIDs while taking this medicine.","Do not drive or operate machinery if you experience dizziness or drowsiness.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of side effects.","Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney or liver disease, asthma, or heart problems.","Do not use for longer than prescribed without medical advice.","Stop use and consult a doctor if you experience signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as black stools or vomiting blood.","This medicine may cause drowsiness; avoid activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Dicyclomine and mefenamic acid may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding. Alternative medications may be preferred.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine may cause symptoms such as severe drowsiness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fast heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or seizures. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Monitor vital signs and provide supportive care.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose or use it for longer than advised. Take it with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or drowsy. Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney or liver disease, asthma, or heart problems. Do not use this medicine during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester, unless your doctor specifically advises it. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the anticholinergic effects of dicyclomine, such as confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. They also have a higher risk of NSAID-related gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney problems. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Regular monitoring is recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, due to risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. Discuss alternative treatments with your doctor.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine is contraindicated for perioperative pain in coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. For other surgeries, consult your surgeon before taking this medicine, as it may increase bleeding risk and affect healing.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may increase bleeding risk. Your dentist may advise you to stop the medicine temporarily before surgery.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your body.

🥗

Regular low-impact exercise like walking or swimming can help with digestion and pain.

😴

Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation.

💧

Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 rich fish.

🧘

Get adequate sleep to support overall health.

🌞

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise if you experience dizziness or drowsiness. Listen to your body and rest if you feel unwell. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

Reduce intake of processed and fried foods.

Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Eat small, frequent meals to ease digestion.

Avoid spicy and acidic foods if they worsen your symptoms.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It may also cause dry mouth, so keep water handy. Generally, it does not significantly impact office work, but take precautions if your job requires alertness.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your symptoms improve, your doctor may adjust or stop the dose. Never stop abruptly if you have been on long-term therapy.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of kidney problems, liver damage, gastrointestinal bleeding, and cardiovascular events. Regular monitoring of kidney and liver function, blood counts, and blood pressure is recommended. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Physical therapy

Can complement medicine for chronic pain and improve mobility.

Evidence: Well-established

Dietary changes

Avoiding trigger foods can help manage IBS symptoms.

Evidence: Moderate

Stress management

Techniques like yoga and meditation can reduce stress-related symptoms.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are established from the available information. However, inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking before receiving any vaccine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from light and moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with severe menstrual cramps

She was prescribed this medicine for primary dysmenorrhea. She took one tablet with food twice daily during her periods. Within a few hours, her cramps were significantly relieved. She experienced mild dry mouth but no other side effects. She was advised to avoid alcohol and to take the medicine with food.

💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food reduces stomach upset and improves tolerability. It effectively relieves menstrual cramps.

👤 A 50-year-old man with irritable bowel syndrome

He had frequent abdominal cramps and bloating. His doctor prescribed this medicine to be taken as needed. He found that taking it at the first sign of cramps helped prevent severe episodes. He was monitored for kidney function due to long-term use.

💡 Lesson: Early use during cramps can provide better relief. Regular monitoring is important for long-term use.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 1 to 2 hours after taking it.

Q: Can I take it on an empty stomach?

A: It is best taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

Q: Is it safe to take with other painkillers?

A: Do not take other NSAIDs without consulting your doctor, as it may increase the risk of side effects.

Q: Can I take it during pregnancy?

A: Avoid use during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, unless prescribed by your doctor.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

Can I take this medicine long-term?
Will it affect my kidney function?
Can I drive after taking this medicine?
Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for alspas 20mg/500mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

Myth: This medicine can be taken on an empty stomach.
Fact: It should be taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Myth: This medicine is safe for long-term use without monitoring.
Fact: Long-term use requires monitoring of kidney and liver function and blood counts.
Myth: This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy.
Fact: It should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, unless prescribed by a doctor.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

Dicyclomine 20 mg + Mefenamic Acid 500 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

Alspas 20mg/500mg Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Dicyclomine + Mefenamic Acid","composition":"Dicyclomine 20 mg + Mefenamic Acid 500 mg","uses":"Abdominal cramps, menstrual pain, GI spasms","notes":"Combination provides both antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects."},{"medicine":"Dicyclomine + Paracetamol","composition":"Dicyclomine 20 mg + Paracetamol 500 mg","uses":"Abdominal cramps, pain","notes":"Paracetamol provides analgesic but not anti-inflammatory effect."},{"medicine":"Mefenamic Acid alone","composition":"Mefenamic Acid 500 mg","uses":"Pain, inflammation, menstrual cramps","notes":"No antispasmodic effect."}]

Alspas 20mg/500mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

What is alspas 20mg/500mg tablet used for?

🇮🇳 alspas 20mg/500mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

💊 alspas 20mg/500mg tablet Uses & Benefits

📋 Drug Information

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

How It Works

Mechanism Steps

💡 How to Take alspas 20mg/500mg tablet

Dosage Information

Dosage Timeline

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

⚠️ Side Effects of alspas 20mg/500mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

🚨 Serious Side Effects

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

🔬 Drug Interactions

🚨 Major Interactions

⚡ Moderate Interactions

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

🤱 Lactation Safety

💊 Overdose Management

⏰ Missed Dose

Additional Safety Advice

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

🦷 Dental Procedures

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

🥗 Diet Recommendations

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✅ DO

❌ DON'T

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

🔄 Substitutes for alspas 20mg/500mg tablet

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

Brand Alternatives

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

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