Meverine

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Meverine

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 Meverine

Quick Facts: Meverine (Mebeverine)

Property Description
Active ingredient Mebeverine (typically as Hydrochloride salt)
Form Oral preparations (Tablet, Modified-release capsule)
Pharmacological class Musculotropic Antispasmodic Agent
Common use Symptomatic relief of abdominal spasm and cramping
Origin Synthetic compound

Defining Meverine: A Musculotropic Antispasmodic Agent

Meverine is a synthetic pharmaceutical preparation containing the active component Mebeverine, classified as a musculotropic spasmolytic and falling within the general group of antispasmodic agents. The general purpose of this medicine is to provide relief from the physical symptoms of painful muscular contractions, or spasms, in the bowel. Pharmacological studies support that Mebeverine is a musculotropic agent with demonstrable regulatory effects on bowel function, confirming its targeted role in managing an overactive gut.

Mebeverine’s Composition, Forms, and Selective Action

The core ingredient, Mebeverine Hydrochloride, is a phenylethylamine derivative that is structurally designed for its selective action on the digestive tract musculature. It is typically supplied for oral use in two primary forms: the conventional tablet and the specialized modified-release capsule (extended-release capsule). This drug is distinctive because its physiological action is highly localized to the smooth muscles of the intestine, promoting relaxation directly at the site of the spasm. The selective action is a key feature, as it means the medicine avoids significant interaction with the autonomic nervous system or the central nervous system, offering targeted symptomatic relief from conditions involving hyperactive bowel movements.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH review on Mebeverine

What side effects are possible with Meverine?

Meverine: Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Adverse Reaction Profile

The safety profile of Meverine (mebeverine) is generally considered favorable, with the absence of systemic side effects typically associated with traditional anticholinergics. Adverse reactions are reported infrequently and are commonly mild and transient.

Category Documented Adverse Reactions
Immune System Hypersensitivity reactions (very rare in clinical trials; precise frequency not known in post-marketing reports), including serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Skin Urticaria (hives), angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, or tongue), facial edema, and exanthema (skin rash).
Gastrointestinal Indigestion, heartburn, constipation, loss of appetite.
Nervous System Dizziness, headache, insomnia.
General General malaise, decrease in pulse rate (reported rarely).

Clinically Significant Safety Considerations

  • Serious Allergic Reactions: The most significant documented risk is the potential for hypersensitivity reactions, which may manifest as angioedema or, rarely, anaphylaxis. Patients who experience swelling of the face, throat, or difficulty breathing must seek immediate medical attention.

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Meverine is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly the first trimester, due to limited safety data regarding potential effects on fetal development. It is also not recommended during breast-feeding as it is secreted into human milk at low levels, although adverse effects in the infant have not been documented.

  • Cardiovascular Caution: Although not reported, regulatory warnings advise caution when administering the drug to patients with a pre-existing cardiac dysrhythmia, specifically those with partial or complete atrioventricular heart block, based on potential theoretical clinical significance.

  • Excipients: Some formulations contain lactose or sucrose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose or fructose intolerance, lactase deficiency, or malabsorption syndromes should not take this medicine.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Official regulatory information describes the overdose profile for Meverine based on reported clinical experiences and theoretical considerations. Overdose is officially described as generally resulting in symptoms that are either absent or mild and typically rapidly reversible.

Documented Manifestations

Observed symptoms in cases of overdose have been of a neurological and cardiovascular nature. On a theoretical basis, it is predicted that a significant overdose could lead to Central Nervous System (CNS) excitability.

Emergency Actions

If you suspect an overdose, you must seek immediate medical attention by contacting emergency services or a National Poisons Information Centre for expert guidance. Take the medication packaging with you.

No specific antidote is known for Meverine overdose. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, meaning it focuses on addressing the specific symptoms that appear and maintaining vital functions. The patient’s vital functions should be monitored closely in a medical setting.

Absorption reducing measures, such as administering activated charcoal, are not generally necessary but may be considered in cases of multiple intoxication (overdose on several substances) or if the patient is seen by a healthcare professional within approximately one hour of taking the excessive dose. The decision for such procedures rests with the treating physician.

The regulatory summary emphasizes a need for close monitoring and supportive care, consistent with the observed profile of mild and reversible symptoms.

Therapeutic Uses of Meverine

Meverine is generally used to help with the symptomatic management of conditions involving intestinal spasm and is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed.


Symptomatic Relief for Painful Abdominal Spasms

This medication is primarily relevant for easing symptoms related to physical discomfort, such as intense abdominal pain and cramping, which are symptoms related to heightened physiological activity. It helps address symptom clusters that may appear suddenly, providing support that helps ease the overall symptom load.

Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Functional Disorders

Meverine is commonly used within therapeutic areas involving certain distressing symptoms in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and other conditions characterized by recurrent or episodic manifestations. Contributing to easing day-to-day comfort, it may assist with maintaining functional stability when symptoms become more noticeable.


Quick Fact: Symptom Management Context
Primary Domain Functional Bowel Disorders (IBS, Spastic Colon)
Main Symptom Target Cramping and Abdominal Distension
Benefit Provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Meverine (mebeverine hydrochloride) is officially authorized for use primarily in adults, provided no exclusionary conditions are present.

Contraindications and Non-Eligibility

Regulatory documents strictly contraindicate the use of this medicine in the following populations:

  • Individuals with known hypersensitivity (allergy) to mebeverine hydrochloride or any of the inactive ingredients (excipients).
  • Patients diagnosed with Paralytic Ileus (a form of intestinal blockage).
  • Women who are breastfeeding.
  • Patients with specific rare hereditary metabolic disorders, such as galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption, due to the presence of excipients like lactose in some formulations.

Use Restrictions and Special Considerations

  • Age: The tablets and modified-release capsules are generally not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age, citing insufficient official data on safety and efficacy in these younger groups.
  • Pregnancy: Use is not recommended during pregnancy, as there is limited data available to establish safety.
  • Comorbidities: Caution and special monitoring may be necessary for patients with severe hepatic impairment (advanced liver disease) or severe renal impairment (advanced kidney disease).

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory information regarding drug interactions for the musculotropic antispasmodic Mebeverine (Meverine) is distinct due to the general absence of documented interaction studies with other medicinal products.

Official Interaction Findings

Substance Category
Interactions with Other Medicinal Products
Interactions with Alcohol

Mebeverine's regulatory profile notes a general lack of known interactions with other medicines. The official documents state that formal interaction studies have not been performed with medicinal products, meaning that specific pharmacokinetic interactions—such as those involving CYP enzymes, drug transporters, or exposure-modifying effects—are not officially detailed in the labeling.

Documented Product Interaction

The only specific interaction profile established in authoritative regulatory sources is for ethanol (alcohol). Regulatory studies have demonstrated the absence of any interaction between Mebeverine hydrochloride and alcohol. Consequently, official patient information confirms that there are no restrictions on alcohol consumption when taking this medicine.

Interaction-Related Restrictions

No co-administered medicinal products are formally classified as contraindicated, and no mandatory time separation or specific dosing interval rules are stipulated in official documents due to the lack of documented drug–drug interactions.

This structure reflects the official classification, which is characterized by the explicit finding for alcohol and the absence of specific interaction data for other substances.

Mechanism of Action

Target Engagement and Receptor Stabilization

Meverine's binding to the beta2-adrenergic receptor (AR) initiates the cascade. This interaction subsequently stabilizes the receptor in its active conformation, resulting in altered modulation of the pathway controlling inflammatory cytokine transcription.

Intracellular Signaling Cascade

Activation of adenylyl cyclase increases intracellular cAMP, which serves as a second messenger, activating protein kinase A (PKA). Phosphorylation via PKA affects the activity of transcription factors, including CREB.

Modulation of Gene Expression Pathways

Meverine exhibits an allosteric binding profile. The ultimate result is a modulation of the NF-kappa B pathway, which alters downstream gene expression.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Meverine

Meverine (Mebeverine) must be used according to the official instructions detailed in regulatory prescribing information. The instructions below describe the standardized administration protocol, route, and dosing schedule as specified by national health authorities.

Official Dosing and Frequency

The approved route of administration for Meverine is oral use only. The standard adult dosing regimens are fixed according to the formulation:

Formulation Standard Adult Dosing Regimen Frequency Key Timing Rule
135 mg Tablet One tablet per dose Three times a day Preferably 20 minutes before meals
200 mg Modified-release capsule One capsule per dose Twice a day Preferably 20 minutes before meals

Administration Requirements and Handling

To ensure proper use, the product label includes specific instructions on how to handle and take the medicine:

  • Swallowing: Tablets and capsules must be swallowed whole with sufficient water (e.g., at least 100 mL). The formulations must not be chewed due to their unpleasant taste.
  • Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, it should be skipped. Patients must not take an additional dose to compensate for a forgotten dose.
  • Treatment Course: The duration of use is not limited. Following several weeks of use, the dosage may be gradually reduced after the desired effect has been obtained.

Population-Specific Rules

Official prescribing information provides guidelines for specific patient groups:

  • Older Adults and Organ Impairment: No dosage adjustment is deemed necessary for older adults or patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
  • Pediatric Use: The 135 mg tablet is not recommended for use in children and adolescents below 18 years due to insufficient data on safety and efficacy in this age group.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Meverine: Recent Clinical Evidence


Evidence for use in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Functional Bowel Disorders

Research was studied for Meverine use in adult patients experiencing conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of IBS. Studies were primarily short-term, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs). These trials focused on patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort, specifically outcomes related to physical discomfort (such as abdominal pain and cramping). While research highlights changes measured during the study period, systematic reviews noted that findings were mixed and described patterns of methodological heterogeneity and inconsistent findings when studies explored overall global symptom scores compared to placebo. This evidence contributes to the broader landscape but certainty remains low for a consistent global improvement pattern across all research syntheses.

Evidence in Specific Age Groups: Children and Adolescents

This section will describe the specialized research that exists for Meverine in pediatric and adolescent patients diagnosed with IBS or Functional Abdominal Pain, outlining the types of trials conducted and their short-term observation periods.

Meverine was evaluated in a limited number of specialized RCTs research exploring short-term symptom changes in children and adolescents (ages 6 to 18) diagnosed with FAP or IBS. Research so far indicates that the evidence is limited for this population. Evidence is limited, as initial studies reported patterns where the outcomes were comparable to placebo for primary endpoints. Sample sizes were modest, and subgroup findings are uncertain within this age range.

Long-Term Research and Follow-up Data

The majority of controlled trials observing responses over defined time intervals typically lasted 4 to 16 weeks. This means that follow-up durations were limited in high-quality research, and long-term effects are not fully established regarding the medicine's role in outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance over extended periods. Data derived from observational settings evaluating daily-life functioning contributes to the broader evidence landscape, but data are still emerging regarding durability of response.

Key Studies & References

  1. WHO ATC Index: A03AA04 - Mebeverine

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Meverine (FAQ)

Q: How quickly does Meverine start to work after taking it?

According to patient information leaflets, the effects of Meverine typically begin to start approximately one hour after the dose is taken. This timing is often aligned with recommendations for managing symptoms that may follow food intake.

Q: How long do the effects of Meverine last?

The duration of effect is tied to the specific formulation. The standard tablet is often scheduled for three times a day, and the specialized slow-release capsule is typically scheduled for twice a day. These frequencies indicate the intended duration of the drug's action in the body.

Q: Can Meverine be taken on an empty stomach?

Official recommendations for Meverine administration usually state that it should be taken 20 minutes before a meal. This timing is generally advised to ensure optimal effectiveness.

Q: Is it normal to feel a little dizzy after the first few doses of Meverine?

Dizziness is a documented adverse reaction listed in official product information. However, the label does not specify if this symptom is more commonly reported during the initial doses or if it becomes less frequent over time. As with any persistent or severe adverse reaction, it should be brought to the attention of a healthcare professional.

Q: Does Meverine cause drowsiness that would affect driving?

The official product information lists dizziness and headache as possible side effects. Despite this, regulatory authorities generally state that Meverine is not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery when taken at the recommended dosage.

Q: Are there any long-term side effects associated with taking Meverine?

The majority of documented side effects are reported to be mild and transient. Research primarily focuses on short-term observation periods, and data regarding the effects of very prolonged use are still emerging.

Q: Does Meverine interact with commonly used supplements like probiotics or fiber?

Formal interaction studies with supplements such as probiotics or fiber are not typically reported in the official drug label. Therefore, there is no specific regulatory data to confirm or deny an interaction.

Q: Can Meverine be taken alongside acid reflux medicine (like PPIs)?

The official label notes a general absence of documented drug interactions with other medicinal products. It is not specifically identified as having an interaction with common acid reflux medicines (PPIs).

Q: Can Meverine be taken with other pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen?

Based on the general lack of documented drug-drug interactions in the official product information, Meverine is not specifically identified as interacting with common pain relievers such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose of Meverine?

Regulatory instructions state that if a dose is missed, it should be skipped, and the patient should take the next dose at the usual scheduled time. It is stated that patients should not take an additional dose to compensate for a forgotten one.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally take two doses of Meverine close together?

Official safety guidance suggests that taking more than the recommended dose is generally unlikely to cause serious harm. Any concerns regarding an accidental overdose should be brought to the attention of a healthcare provider.

Q: How long can a person safely take Meverine?

Official prescribing information states that the duration of use is not limited. The official label indicates the dosage may be gradually reduced after the desired symptomatic relief has been obtained.

Q: Will Meverine still work if I break the tablet in half?

Official administration requirements specify that both the tablets and capsules must be swallowed whole with water. They should not be broken, crushed, or chewed.

Q: Is it normal to have a dry mouth while taking Meverine?

Dry mouth is listed in official post-marketing data as a potential, though not frequently reported, side effect that has been associated with the use of Meverine.

Q: Does Meverine have a generic version available?

The active pharmaceutical ingredient, Mebeverine Hydrochloride, is a generic drug. It is available internationally under various brand names, in addition to its generic version.

How should Meverine be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Mebeverine

Official regulatory guidelines mandate specific storage and disposal rules for mebeverine to maintain product integrity and safety.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement (Official Labeling)
Temperature Store at a temperature not above 30 C (86 F)
Protection Must be protected from light and moisture; store in the original container
Prohibition Do not refrigerate or freeze certain formulations; do not use after the expiry date
Child Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children

Disposal Protocol

Expired or unused mebeverine must be discarded according to official instructions. The medicine should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste to protect the environment. Consult a pharmacist or local waste authority for advice on proper pharmaceutical return or disposal programs.

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

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