Best Medicines for Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea) in India
NSAIDs are first-line. Start before period for best effect.
Last updated: October 2026
Mefenamic Acid
Use: NSAID painkiller approved for period pain. Take it with food and only for the few days you need it. Meftal Spas is a different product that also contains the antispasmodic dicyclomine.
Side effects: Stomach upset, nausea. Can cause stomach ulcers or bleeding. Stop it and see a doctor at once if you get a rash, fever or swollen glands, as rare serious skin and allergic reactions can happen.
Side effects: Stomach upset, nausea. Can cause stomach ulcers or bleeding. Stop it and see a doctor at once if you get a rash, fever or swollen glands, as rare serious skin and allergic reactions can happen. NSAID painkiller approved for period pain. Take it with food and only for the few days you need it. Meftal Spas is a different product that also contains the antispasmodic dicyclomine.
Ibuprofen
Use: Start 1-2 days before period.
Side effects: Stomach upset, heartburn, feeling sick. Take it with or after food. It can cause stomach ulcers or bleeding, so check with your doctor first if you have had a stomach ulcer or bleeding, or if you have asthma. Do not take it if aspirin or another NSAID painkiller has caused asthma, hives or an allergic reaction.
Side effects: Stomach upset, heartburn, feeling sick. Take it with or after food. It can cause stomach ulcers or bleeding, so check with your doctor first if you have had a stomach ulcer or bleeding, or if you have asthma. Do not take it if aspirin or another NSAID painkiller has caused asthma, hives or an allergic reaction. Start 1-2 days before period.
Drotaverine
Use: Antispasmodic for cramps.
Side effects: Headache, dizziness, low blood pressure, dry mouth, nausea, slow or irregular pulse.
Side effects: Headache, dizziness, low blood pressure, dry mouth, nausea, slow or irregular pulse. Antispasmodic for cramps.
Hot Water Bottle
Use: Heat relaxes uterine muscles.
Side effects: Can burn the skin if too hot. Wrap it in a towel and do not fall asleep with it on.
Side effects: Can burn the skin if too hot. Wrap it in a towel and do not fall asleep with it on. Heat relaxes uterine muscles.
When to See a Doctor
If period pain stops your daily activities, gets worse over time, or your periods become heavier or irregular. Also see a doctor if you have pain during sex, bleeding between periods, fever with pelvic pain, or unusual discharge. Get urgent help if the pain is severe and painkillers do not help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask GoDavaii AI About Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea) Medicines
Get personalised medicine guidance, check interactions, and understand dosage in 90+ languages - free.
Ask GoDavaii AISources Checked
The medicines, Indian brands and advice on this page were checked against these treatment guides and product listings.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. The medicines listed may require a prescription. Dosage, suitability, and safety depend on individual health conditions. Always consult a licensed doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication.