About meptazinol

Meptazinol is used to treat moderate types of pain for short periods of time. As such, it may be useful for treating pain associated with childbirth and some kidney problems. Meptazinol can also be used to ease pain before, during and after an operation. It works on your nerves and brain to reduce the pain you feel.

Before taking meptazinol

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking meptazinol it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have any breathing problems, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have prostate or thyroid problems.
• If you have epilepsy or low blood pressure.
• If you have a problem with your bile duct.
• If you have been constipated for more than a week or have an inflammatory bowel problem.
• If you have ever been dependent on drugs or alcohol.
• If you have recently had a heart attack or a severe head injury.
• If you have a condition called myasthenia gravis (a muscle wasting disease).
• If you have phaeochromocytoma (a growth on your adrenal gland).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take meptazinol

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more information about the specific brand of meptazinol you have been given, and a full list of possible side-effects from taking it.
• Take meptazinol exactly as your doctor has told you. The usual dose is one tablet every four hours if needed to ease pain. Your dose will also be on the label of your pack. Do not take more doses than your doctor has recommended.
• You can take these tablets before, during or after your meals.
• If you forget to take a dose, don't worry. Take a dose as soon as you remember if you need pain relief; otherwise, just take the next dose as usual. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you drink alcohol, ask your doctor for advice before taking meptazinol and alcohol. Your doctor may recommend you do not drink alcohol while you are on this medicine, as it increases the possibility of side-effects such as dizziness and feeling sleepy.
• Do not take these tablets for longer than you have been advised by your doctor. This is because meptazinol is only recommended for short periods of time. Repeated use of meptazinol over a longer period of time may lead to your body becoming dependent on it.

Can meptazinol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store meptazinol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines