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Almus Period Pain Reliever Gastro-Resistant Tablets 250mg – 9 Tablets

£5.99
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FAQs

Why is naproxen particularly effective for period pain?
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Period pain (primary dysmenorrhoea) is driven primarily by prostaglandins produced in the uterine lining, which cause the uterine muscle to contract forcefully. Naproxen is highly effective for this specific mechanism because it potently inhibits COX enzymes and therefore prostaglandin production. Its particular advantage over shorter-acting NSAIDs like ibuprofen is its long half-life of 12 to 17 hours, which means each dose provides prolonged coverage and fewer dosing events are needed throughout the day. Clinical research consistently places naproxen among the most effective over-the-counter options for dysmenorrhoea.

Why must I swallow these tablets whole?
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The gastro-resistant enteric coating on each tablet is designed to prevent the tablet from dissolving in the acidic environment of the stomach, allowing it to pass intact to the small intestine where dissolution occurs. Crushing, chewing, or breaking the tablet destroys this coating and exposes naproxen directly to the stomach lining, negating the gastric protection and increasing the risk of nausea, stomach irritation, and ulceration that the coating is designed to prevent. Always swallow whole with a glass of water.

Why is this a pharmacy-only medicine?
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Almus Period Pain Reliever is a Pharmacy (P) medicine because naproxen at this dose for period pain requires pharmacist assessment to confirm it is appropriate for the individual, particularly to screen for NSAID contraindications such as peptic ulcer history, renal impairment, cardiovascular disease, and relevant drug interactions. The pharmacist can also advise on the correct dosing regimen for period pain and discuss when referral to a GP is appropriate — for example, when period pain is severe, worsening, or may indicate an underlying gynaecological condition.

Can I use this product instead of ibuprofen for period pain?
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Yes, and for many women naproxen provides better period pain relief than ibuprofen for several reasons. The longer duration of action means fewer doses are needed throughout the day, which is more practical and may improve pain control by maintaining more consistent prostaglandin suppression. Some women also find naproxen more effective than ibuprofen for their individual pain severity. However, both are effective NSAIDs for dysmenorrhoea, and if ibuprofen works well for you and you have no reason to switch, there is no absolute need to change. Your Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist can help you compare the options based on your specific needs and history.

Can I use this product if my period pain might be due to endometriosis?
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NSAIDs including naproxen can provide symptomatic relief from endometriosis-related pain, as the prostaglandin-reduction mechanism is relevant to this condition as well. However, endometriosis requires medical diagnosis and management, and relying solely on over-the-counter pain relief without medical assessment is not appropriate if you suspect you may have this condition. Signs that warrant GP assessment include very severe period pain, pain that occurs outside of menstruation, pain during intercourse, or period pain that is progressively worsening over time. If your period pain is not adequately controlled by this product, or if it is associated with any of these features, consult your GP.

Is it safe to use this product during pregnancy?
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No. NSAIDs including naproxen are contraindicated from 28 weeks of pregnancy (the third trimester) due to the risk of serious adverse effects on the developing baby, including premature closure of the ductus arteriosus and neonatal kidney problems. In the first and second trimesters, use should be avoided where possible and only undertaken under medical guidance. As this product is indicated for period pain, it should not be needed during pregnancy. If you experience pain during pregnancy, consult your GP or midwife for appropriate and safe pain management options.