12 Types of Over-the-Counter Medicines to Tackle Abortion Pill Effects

If you are looking for a privacy-enabled non-surgical way to end an early pregnancy, then the MTP Kit (Mifepristone and Misoprostol pills) is an ideal option. You can take the medication to terminate a pregnancy up to 12 weeks. However, the side effects of the procedure include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, stomach upset, tiredness, and more.

You can manage this temporary discomfort with over-the-counter (OTC)medicines. In this blog, we will guide you with details about 15 types of OTC alternatives – with dosage, precautions, tips, and more.

Pain and Cramping Relief Meds

Abdominal cramps usually begin a couple of hours after Misoprostol administration. The pain is like intense labor from uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy. OTC medicine may not eliminate the pain. However, they can reduce the pain significantly.

1. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

You can orally administer Ibuprofen 600-800mg every 6 hours is the advised dose. Do not take more than 3200 mg in 24 hours. The medicine causes relief from spasms and cramps because of the anti-inflammatory action. It suppresses prostaglandins but does not affect the activity of Misoprostol in ending the pregnancy.

2. Naproxen (Aleve)

You may use 220-440mg of this medicine every 8-12 hours. While Ibuprofen gives sustained relief, Naproxen is known for its longer action with effects lasting for up to 12 hours to curb pain and cramps.

3. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Another alternative is Acetaminophen every 4 to 6 hours at 500-1000mg dosage strength. Do not administer more than 4000mg in a day. You may take it with Ibuprofen if needed. This medicine has lower risks of gastrointestinal side effects.

Bleeding and Clot Management

Heavy vaginal bleeding is an expected outcome of medical abortion. The bleeding contains the shed endometrial lining. It also has pregnancy tissues and particles. The flow is moderate to heavy, for which you need large sanitary pads. Avoid menstrual cups and tampons. Since the bleeding is heavy, it can affect hemoglobin and iron levels temporarily, so here are the ways to manage these.

4. Tranexamic Acid

You may take Tranexamic Acid 1300mg three times for one to three days. While bleeding may happen like a heavy period, if you soak over 2 large pads every hour for two hours consecutively, it may require medical attention. While you are looking for physician support, you can start with this medicine. It will manage clots and reduce bleeding, preventing anemia risk.

5. Iron Supplements (Ferrous Sulfate)

If iron levels or hemoglobin dips, then your doctor can recommend iron supplements. The usual dose is 325mg per day. However, you need to also take vitamin C along, be it through supplements or otherwise. This medicine controls blood loss and gets over associated fatigue. It is usually started after confirmation of hemoglobin levels, and when necessary.

Nausea and Vomiting Control

Misoprostol may cause nausea and vomiting due to the prostaglandin action. The hormonal fluctuations may cause abdominal discomfort, for which you can consider antiemetic and antihistamine type medicines as follows.

6. Meclizine (Dramamine Less Drowsy)

Use 25mg of Meclizine every 6-8 hours. The antihistamine mechanism blocks nausea signals. It is a non-drowsy formula, which is conducive during an MTP Kit medical abortion process.

7. Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine Original)

Consider 50mg of Dimenhydrinate every 4-6 hours. It has known effectiveness against motion-like sickness usually caused by abdominal issues or contractions.

8. Ginger Supplements (Chewables or Capsules)

If you take ginger chewables or capsules 250mg every 4 hours or simply consume a little amount of ginger ale, it can fight nausea. It is safe, soothing, and natural – a fine option over medication.

9. Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

The Bismuth Subsalicylate forms a coast in the stomach to combat diarrhea. Take 524mg very 30-60 minutes. Do not go over 8 doses in 24 hours.

Fever, Chills, and Inflammation

Mild elevation of body temperature (less than 100.4°F), is possible due to abortion effort physically. Keep a check on the fever and in case you need a medicine to control it, here is what you can take.

10. Paracetamol

The dose is 650mg to 1000mg depending on the severity of symptoms. You may take one or maximum 2 to 3 doses in a day as per the doctor’s guidance. This medicine has antipyretic properties to reduce fever, chills, and body aches.

Digestive Upset and Diarrhea

Misoprostol from the MTP Kit may lead to some number of digestive issues, diarrhea, and bloating. Hydration is necessary to replenish the water loss. You can also drink electrolyte drinks to make up for the mineral loss. Here are medicines and supplements to choose from.

11. Loperamide (Imodium)

If you experience diarrhea, then take 2mg of Loperamide to start with. After that, take 1mg after every time you pass loose stool. However, do not go over 8mg in a day. The medicine slows gut motility in a safe way without impacting the medical abortion procedure.

12. Probiotics

Probiotics improve digestion and normalize digestive function. It is available usually in the form of supplements. You can also intake probiotics naturally by having yogurt or relevant fermented foods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common FAQs about OTC medicines to manage the medical abortion side effects.

1.       What's the best OTC for medical abortion cramps?

Ibuprofen 600-800mg every 6 hours helps reduce pain and bleeding. It works on suppressing prostaglandins without negatively affecting the activity of MTP Kit pills. This is a standard medicine to tackle the consequences of abortion pills.

2.       Can I take Tylenol with ibuprofen for side effects?

Yes, alternate 1000mg acetaminophen and 600mg ibuprofen every 3 to 4 hours is good enough to relieve moderate to intense cramps. However, seek advice from a doctor whenever you use any OTCs medication in case of contraindications.

3.       Does Pepto-Bismol help nausea and diarrhea?

Yes, 524mg of Pepto-Bismol every 30-60 minutes eases the stomach upset issues. It also controls loose stools caused from the hormonal changes after Misoprostol pills.

4.       Is tranexamic acid safe for heavy bleeding?

Yes, 1300mg three times daily, continued for three days can reduce the blood flow. It also manages clots. However, do not take this medicine if you already have a clots-related medical history.

5.       When should I avoid OTC aspirin during abortion?

Do not take aspirin in the MTP Kit pregnancy termination because this may make blood thin. It may thus increase bleeding. Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen instead as they do not increase the risk of bleeding.