Identifying the Pill with Imprint 44390
The white, oblong, or capsule-shaped pill marked with the imprint "44 390" is identified as an over-the-counter (OTC) Menstrual Relief medication. It is not a controlled substance. This medication is produced by several manufacturers, including for major pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS, and is often compared to brands like Midol® Complete. Its primary purpose is to provide temporary relief from a variety of symptoms associated with menstrual periods and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Active Ingredients and Their Functions
The effectiveness of the 44390 pill comes from its three active ingredients:
- Acetaminophen: This is a pain reliever (analgesic). It works to alleviate physical discomforts such as headaches, backaches, muscle aches, and cramps associated with menstruation.
- Caffeine: Included as a diuretic, caffeine helps to reduce bloating and water-weight gain. It also combats fatigue, a common symptom during menstrual periods. The amount of caffeine is roughly equivalent to a cup of coffee.
- Pyrilamine Maleate: This ingredient is an antihistamine. In this formulation, it helps to relieve symptoms like bloating and muscle aches.
Proper Usage and Information
It is crucial to follow the instructions provided on the product packaging. Users should not exceed the maximum recommended intake within a 24-hour period. This medication is not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless directed by a doctor.
Potential Side Effects and Warnings
This medication contains acetaminophen, and it is critical to be aware of the liver warning. Severe liver damage can occur if a user exceeds the recommended daily limit of acetaminophen, takes it with other drugs containing acetaminophen, or consumes three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using the product.
Common side effects may include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea or stomach pain
Due to the inclusion of pyrilamine maleate, an antihistamine, drowsiness may occur. Users should exercise caution when driving or operating machinery. Combining this medication with alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers can increase the drowsiness effect. Excitability may occur, particularly in children.
Comparison of Active Ingredients
To better understand the function of the 44390 pill's components, it's helpful to compare them to other common OTC ingredients.
| Ingredient | Class | Primary Function in 44390 | Found In Other Products For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acetaminophen | Analgesic | Pain relief (cramps, headache) | General pain, fever (Tylenol) |
| Caffeine | Stimulant/Diuretic | Reduces bloating & fatigue | Staying awake, migraine relief |
| Pyrilamine Maleate | Antihistamine | Bloating relief | Allergy symptoms, sleep aid |
| Guaifenesin (Not in 44390) | Expectorant | N/A | Chest congestion (Mucinex) |
| Dextromethorphan (Not in 44390) | Antitussive | N/A | Cough suppression (Robitussin) |
Important Considerations and When to See a Doctor
Before using this product, individuals with liver disease, glaucoma, breathing problems like emphysema or chronic bronchitis, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland should consult a doctor. Those taking blood-thinning drugs like warfarin or sedatives should also seek medical advice before use.
A user should stop taking the medication and consult a doctor if pain gets worse or lasts for more than 10 days, if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if new symptoms, redness, or swelling appear. These could be signs of a more serious condition.
If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is essential to ask a health professional before using this medication. In case of an overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
Conclusion
The pill with the "44390" imprint is a multi-symptom menstrual relief product designed to alleviate the common pains and discomforts associated with the menstrual cycle. Its combination of a pain reliever, a diuretic, and an antihistamine targets cramps, headaches, fatigue, and bloating. While effective and widely available, it is vital for users to read the label carefully, adhere to recommended intake to avoid potential side effects, especially liver damage from acetaminophen, and consult a healthcare provider with any pre-existing conditions.
For more detailed drug information, consult the National Library of Medicine's database: DailyMed.
