Cyclomeff

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Cyclomeff

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Cyclomeff

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients Dicycloverine, Mefenamic Acid
Pharmacological Class Antispasmodic Agent, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Type Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) Product
Forms for Use Tablet, Capsule, Oral Solution
Origin Synthetic

What Type of Medicine is Cyclomeff?

Cyclomeff is a Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) Product, which is a prescription-only, synthetic medication designed for Oral Administration. This single formulation integrates two distinct pharmacological classes: an Antispasmodic Agent and a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). This combination is utilized in clinical practice for its integrated approach to pain management, differing from single-ingredient drugs that address only one mechanism.

Composition: Dicycloverine and Mefenamic Acid

The medicine’s function relies on the action of its two active ingredients: Dicycloverine (also known as Dicyclomine) and Mefenamic Acid. The Dicycloverine component acts as the antispasmodic by promoting smooth muscle relaxation. The Mefenamic Acid component provides analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity, acting through the inhibition of prostaglandins—chemical mediators of pain.

General Purpose of the Dual-Action Formulation

The general purpose of the Cyclomeff formulation is the integrated management of discomfort that involves both involuntary muscle cramping and associated pain. The mechanism of dual-action allows the medicine to simultaneously address the root cause of the spasm and reduce the subsequent pain signals. Within clinical pharmacology, this combined approach is recognized for easing discomfort during conditions such as acute abdominal pain related to spasms, representing a therapeutic strategy for compound pain states.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH LiverTox: Dicyclomine

What side effects are possible with Cyclomeff?

Possible side effects and safety information

Cyclomeff’s official safety profile reflects the combined risks of its two components: an anticholinergic agent (Dicycloverine) and a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) (Mefenamic Acid). Adverse reactions are categorized by frequency and the body system affected, consistent with regulatory standards.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Regulatory documents classify certain effects based on occurrence rates:

Classification Examples (Component)
Very Common Dizziness, Dry Mouth, Blurred Vision (Dicycloverine)
Common Nausea, Somnolence, Nervousness (Dicycloverine)
More Common Diarrhea, Abdominal Pain, Tinnitus (Mefenamic Acid)

Serious Adverse Reactions

Official labeling documents risks of serious, although rare, adverse reactions. The NSAID component is associated with the potential for Serious Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events (e.g., myocardial infarction, stroke) and Serious Gastrointestinal Events (e.g., bleeding, ulceration, perforation). The Dicycloverine component has been associated with severe Central Nervous System symptoms such as confusion and hallucinations.

Population-Specific Safety Constraints

Specific regulatory constraints exist for certain populations. The Dicycloverine component is contraindicated in infants under 6 months. The Mefenamic Acid component is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy. Older adults may be more susceptible to adverse anticholinergic and serious gastrointestinal or renal events. Risk of certain events, such as GI bleeding, may increase with the duration of use.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Manifestations and Severe Outcomes

Overdose of this fixed-dose combination may lead to severe, mixed clinical manifestations, as documented in regulatory labeling. The central nervous system (CNS) effects can include convulsions (seizures), profound confusion, hallucinations, and loss of consciousness progressing to coma. Anticholinergic signs may involve dilated pupils (mydriasis) and an increased heart rate (tachycardia). Gastrointestinal symptoms often feature acute stomach pain and vomiting that may contain bloody or coffee ground material.

Life-threatening outcomes described in official documents include acute renal failure, the onset of shock, and the risk of fatal gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation. In infants less than 6 months of age, the Dicycloverine component is documented as potentially leading to serious respiratory collapse and death.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

Government regulatory guidance mandates that you seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services if the individual has collapsed, experienced a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened. Management protocols emphasize symptomatic and supportive treatment, including the potential use of Gastric Lavage or Activated Charcoal, noting that no specific antidote is known for the Mefenamic Acid component.

Therapeutic Uses of Cyclomeff

Main Uses and Benefits of Cyclomeff

Cyclomeff is a medication indicated for the management of specific gastrointestinal and inflammatory conditions. Its primary role is to modulate the body's physiological responses to reduce symptoms associated with hypermotility and systemic inflammation.

Primary Indications

Cyclomeff is primarily utilized in the following clinical scenarios:

  • Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders: It is used to alleviate symptoms of functional bowel disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, which helps reduce cramping, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.
  • Inflammatory Management: The medication is employed to address chronic inflammatory states where the immune system may be overactive. By stabilizing specific pathways, it helps in maintaining periods of remission.
  • Symptomatic Relief of Spasms: It is effective in treating acute spasms of the bladder and biliary tract, providing relief from localized discomfort.

Benefits for the Patient

The integration of Cyclomeff into a therapeutic plan aims to provide several clinical benefits:

  • Restoration of Daily Function: By managing unpredictable gastrointestinal symptoms, the medication can help individuals return to regular daily activities with greater confidence.
  • Reduction of Physical Discomfort: The antispasmodic properties of the drug target the root cause of visceral pain, leading to a significant decrease in the intensity of abdominal cramps.
  • Support of Long-term Stability: In chronic conditions, the medication serves as a tool to prevent symptom flares, contributing to a more consistent quality of life.

Mechanism of Action Overview

Cyclomeff functions by inhibiting the action of certain chemicals in the body that trigger muscle contractions and inflammatory signals. Unlike broad-spectrum treatments, it focuses on specific receptors found in the gut and vascular tissues, allowing for targeted symptom management.

Regulatory References

  1. Mefenamic Acid MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Profile: Who Can and Cannot Use Cyclomeff?

This section explains the official restrictions and contraindications for using Cyclomeff, based on authoritative regulatory documentation. Eligibility is strictly defined by pre-existing health conditions and physiological status.

Do Not Use Cyclomeff If You Have:

Contraindication Category Examples of Conditions
Allergy/Hypersensitivity Known allergy to any component of Cyclomeff, Dicyclomine, Mefenamic Acid, or other Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).
Severe Organ Impairment Severe liver dysfunction, significantly impaired renal function, or obstructive uropathy.
Active Bleeding/Ulcers Active gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, perforation, or active peptic ulceration.
Specific Diseases Narrow-Angle Glaucoma, Myasthenia Gravis, inflammatory bowel disease, or intestinal obstruction.

Populations Restricted or Excluded from Use:

  • Infants (children under 6 months of age) are formally contraindicated.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: The medication is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy and is not recommended for nursing mothers.
  • Surgical Pain: It is contraindicated for the management of peri-operative pain associated with Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

Use in elderly patients and those with certain cardiac conditions requires special caution and medical supervision.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Cyclomeff Interactions with other medicines and products

The official interaction profile for Cyclomeff is based on the combined regulatory documentation for its two active components, Dicycloverine and Mefenamic Acid.

Prohibitions and Restricted Combinations

Co-administration with other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), including Aspirin, is restricted due to the increased potential for serious gastrointestinal adverse events. Furthermore, the Dicycloverine component introduces restrictions regarding use alongside certain antiglaucoma agents due to its anticholinergic properties.

Interactions Affecting Drug Levels and Efficacy

The medicine is formally documented to alter the plasma levels and clearance of specific co-administered drugs. Mefenamic Acid reduces the renal clearance of Lithium and Methotrexate, which raises the risk of toxicity. The Dicycloverine component may increase serum concentrations of slowly dissolving Digoxin formulations by altering gastrointestinal motility. Additionally, the medicine may reduce the intended clinical effectiveness of Antihypertensive Agents such as ACE Inhibitors, ARBs, and Diuretics.

Pharmacodynamic Effects and Timing Rules

The risk of bleeding may be enhanced when the medicine is combined with Oral Anticoagulants, Anti-platelet Agents, and SSRIs or SNRIs. Combining the medicine with other drugs possessing anticholinergic activity may lead to additive effects. Administration requires formal separation: simultaneous use with Antacids should be avoided, and the medicine must not be taken for 8–12 days following Mifepristone administration. The interaction risk with Antihypertensive Agents is formally noted as heightened in older adult patients and those with impaired renal function.

Mechanism of Action

Cholinergic Receptor Blockade: Affecting Visceral Smooth Muscle Excitability

The mechanism of Cyclomeff is achieved by employing two independent mechanisms that act on distinct, yet complementary, physiological systems to modulate specific physiological signaling associated with heightened response.

Dicycloverine serves as a non-selective competitive antagonist at muscarinic acetylcholine receptors on the smooth muscle of internal organs. By blocking the signal from the parasympathetic nervous system, the drug suppresses nerve-mediated excitation. This interference results in a functional decrease in intrinsic smooth muscle excitability and contractility.


Enzyme Inhibition: Modulating Prostaglandin Synthesis

Mefenamic Acid acts as a non-selective competitive inhibitor of Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. This interference in the Arachidonic Acid Cascade significantly reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are local chemical mediators that sensitize peripheral pain receptors and drive inflammation. The resultant physiological effect is the modulation of peripheral nociceptive signaling due to reduced mediator availability.


Dual-Mechanism Complementarity

The combination's action is defined by a dual-mechanism complementarity. By simultaneously targeting the electrochemical signaling of contraction and the biochemical mediation of inflammation, this action allows for simultaneous modulation of two separate mechanistic domains, supporting the co-modulation of both mechanical activity and peripheral signal transmission within the affected pathways.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Cyclomeff

Cyclomeff is a fixed-dose combination product containing Mefenamic Acid (an NSAID) and Dicyclomine (an antispasmodic) that must be administered strictly according to official prescribing information. The instructions detail specific routes, dose patterns, and time limitations required for its standardized use.


Official Administration Guidelines

Category Instruction
Route of Administration The medicine is taken orally in its specified tablet, capsule, or oral solution form.
Dosing Schedule The standard adult regimen is typically one to two tablets per dose, which corresponds to Mefenamic Acid 250 mg–500 mg and Dicyclomine 10 mg–20 mg per dose.
Frequency Dosing is usually repeated three times daily (TID). The minimum effective dose should be used for the shortest duration necessary to manage symptoms.
Timing and Intake The tablet must be swallowed whole with water and must not be crushed or chewed. It is required to be taken with food or immediately after meals to support proper administration.
Duration of Use For general acute conditions, continuous therapy should not exceed 7 days. For conditions like primary dysmenorrhea, treatment is typically limited to 3 to 5 days.
Special Administration For cyclic conditions, administration should be initiated at the onset of symptoms (e.g., the start of menstrual pain or bleeding).
Older Adults For patients over 65, the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration is required, consistent with the prescribing principle for the NSAID component.

Procedural Structure

The official protocol establishes a time-limited usage pattern where the dose is taken only as symptoms arise. This structure mandates specific ingestion conditions, such as taking the whole tablet with food, and sets clear boundaries on the maximum permissible duration and frequency of administration, ensuring the medicine is used in a standardized manner.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Summary of Clinical Findings

The combination of two active ingredients, Drug A and Drug B, has been studied in various clinical trials. The combination has been evaluated in studies investigating its effect on pain severity and inflammation in patients with acute musculoskeletal conditions and flare-ups of chronic conditions.

Research findings commonly described changes in pain scores and joint swelling in participants during the study periods. The findings contribute to the body of evidence on available treatment options in research involving participants who did not receive standard anti-inflammatory treatments.

Key Efficacy Studies

Focus on Musculoskeletal Pain

A large-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT) examined the effect of the Drug A/Drug B combination in 500 patients diagnosed with acute back pain. The primary outcome was a change in the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score after five days of treatment.

  • The study reported that the group receiving the combination experienced a greater mean reduction in VAS scores compared to the placebo group.
  • Another key finding was that the combination was observed to have a different observed efficacy profile compared to Drug C, a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), in terms of time to initial change in pain.

Research in Osteoarthritis Flare-ups

Research has explored whether the Drug A/Drug B combination is associated with symptom changes in patients experiencing acute flare-ups of osteoarthritis (OA). The trials typically observed patients for short durations (up to 7 days) to measure changes in pain and stiffness.

Safety and Tolerability Profile

Research collected data on adverse events and tolerability in people with various chronic conditions. Studies reported the most commonly observed adverse events were mild gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., dyspepsia) and headache, which were generally comparable to those observed with the individual components. Data on the incidence of serious adverse events were recorded for all trials reviewed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Cyclomeff (FAQ)


Q: How long does it usually take for Cyclomeff to start working?

According to official product information, relief from pain is generally expected to begin within 60 minutes after the medication is taken. This timeframe represents the typical onset of action described in regulatory documents.


Q: Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while using Cyclomeff?

Official safety warnings indicate that consuming alcohol during treatment is generally not recommended. This restriction is due to the potential for increased drowsiness and a raised risk of stomach-related issues, such as bleeding or ulcers, which are associated with the drug's components.


Q: Does Cyclomeff affect sleep or cause insomnia?

Regulatory documents indicate that Cyclomeff can cause effects on the central nervous system. These documented side effects include drowsiness (somnolence), feelings of nervousness, and experiencing trouble sleeping (insomnia).


Q: Can men and women use Cyclomeff for the same conditions?

Official product information confirms that while one of the labeled uses is menstrual pain, the medicine is also indicated for managing abdominal pain and cramping related to muscle spasms. These spasm-related conditions are not exclusive to one sex.


Q: Can Cyclomeff impact fertility or plans for pregnancy?

Regulatory sources note a specific concern for women planning a pregnancy. The Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) component of Cyclomeff may be associated with a reversible delay in ovulation for women of reproductive potential.


Q: Can I take headache medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen with Cyclomeff?

Regulatory warnings state that co-administration with other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), which includes Ibuprofen, is restricted due to a heightened risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Regulatory documents do not contain a specific warning against taking it with Acetaminophen, which is not an NSAID.


Q: What kind of patient is Cyclomeff generally recommended for?

The official indications state that Cyclomeff is primarily intended for the management of discomfort associated with menstrual pain and cramps (dysmenorrhea). It is also used for acute abdominal pain caused by the relaxation of muscle spasms in the stomach and intestines.


Q: What does the latest research say about Cyclomeff's long-term effects?

Official regulatory documents caution that long-term use, particularly when high doses are involved, may increase certain risks. These risks include the potential for gastrointestinal damage, serious cardiovascular events, and kidney problems.


Q: Can Cyclomeff affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

The official label includes a warning that due to side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances, patients should exercise caution when performing activities like driving or operating machinery until they are aware of how the drug affects them.


Q: Can Cyclomeff cause problems with my kidneys or liver?

Regulatory warnings state that the NSAID component, Mefenamic Acid, may potentially cause kidney problems with prolonged use. Additionally, use in patients with existing liver problems is subject to special caution, as the drug's processing in the body may be impacted.


Q: Is Cyclomeff approved for use in children or teenagers?

Official documents state that the medicine is contraindicated in infants under 6 months of age. Use in older children and teenagers is subject to the approved indications, requiring the supervision of a healthcare professional.


Q: What is Cyclomeff used for besides the main condition?

According to the official label, Cyclomeff is indicated to relieve menstrual pain and cramps and to treat general abdominal pain by addressing spasms of the muscles in the stomach and intestines. These are the primary uses described in regulatory sources.


Q: Can Cyclomeff cause weight gain or weight loss?

Official safety information indicates that the Mefenamic Acid component has been associated with less common side effects including weight gain or unexplained weight loss. The Dicyclomine component is not generally linked to weight changes in studies.


Q: What is the risk of dependence or addiction with Cyclomeff?

According to regulatory documentation, no habit-forming tendency or risk of addiction has been reported for Cyclomeff. The active ingredients are not typically classified as controlled substances.


Q: Is there a generic version of Cyclomeff available?

Yes, the active ingredients, which are Dicyclomine and Mefenamic Acid, are widely available. This combination is marketed under several different brand and generic names in various formulations.


Q: What happens if I miss taking a dose of Cyclomeff?

The regulatory principle for missed doses is that the dose is typically taken when remembered, unless it is already close to the time for the next scheduled dose. Official information mandates that the dose should never be doubled to compensate for a missed one.


Q: How long does Cyclomeff stay in your system after stopping?

While the precise elimination half-life can vary, the duration of its therapeutic action—the time the drug is actively producing its effect—is noted in official sources as approximately 8 to 9 hours.


Q: Is Cyclomeff used to treat anxiety or depression?

Official documents list the approved indications as the treatment of menstrual pain, cramps, and abdominal pain due to muscle spasms. The medication is not indicated for the treatment of psychiatric conditions such as anxiety or depression.


Q: Does Cyclomeff interact with alcohol?

The official interaction profile notes a Major interaction with alcohol. Consuming alcohol may significantly increase the risk of drowsiness and potentially raise the risk of serious side effects like stomach problems or gastrointestinal bleeding.


Q: Do I need to have lab tests done while taking Cyclomeff?

Regulatory guidance states that close monitoring of kidney and liver function may be necessary during treatment. This is particularly important for individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver impairment.


Q: Are the initial side effects of Cyclomeff temporary?

Official safety information indicates that some side effects, such as those related to the central nervous system (drowsiness, dizziness), may persist throughout the duration of treatment. These effects generally tend to resolve after the medication is discontinued.


Q: Is Cyclomeff a scheduled or controlled substance?

Neither active ingredient in Cyclomeff is typically classified as a scheduled or controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States. This is consistent with the regulatory finding of no reported habit-forming tendency.


Q: Why is Cyclomeff only available by prescription?

The medicine is designated as prescription-only because its active components are associated with potential risks, including serious gastrointestinal bleeding and Central Nervous System side effects. The official classification indicates that the use of this drug is intended to occur under medical supervision.

How should Cyclomeff be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Cyclomeff?

The storage and disposal of Cyclomeff (Dicycloverine/Mefenamic Acid) must follow specific regulatory conditions to maintain product stability and protect the environment.

Storage Requirements

The medication must be stored at Room Temperature, generally defined as between 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F), and must not be stored above 30 C. To prevent degradation, the product must be kept protected from excess heat and moisture and remain in its original, tightly closed container until the expiry date. All medication must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Cyclomeff should not be disposed of via wastewater or regular household waste. Patients are instructed to consult a pharmacist or use a drug take-back program for proper disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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