What is Mefenamic?

Mefenamic acid is a prescription drug which is available in the form of an oral capsule. The brand-name drug Ponstel is available as a mefenamic acid oral tablet. Mefenamic acid is an anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drug (NSAID). Mefenamic acid works by reducing the hormones which cause inflammation and pain in the body. In adults and children who are at least 14 years of age, mefenamic acid is used in the short term (7 days or less) to relieve mild to moderate pain. Mefenamic acid is used for the treatment of menstrual pain as well.

What are the uses of Mefenamic Acid?

Mefenamic acid is used to relieve mild to moderate pain from different conditions over the short term. It is also used to decrease pain from menstrual cycles and blood loss. Mefenamic acid belongs to a class of drugs called NSAIDs. It works by preventing a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation from being produced by the body.

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What are the Side effects of Mefenamic?

Some of the common side effects of Mefenamic acid are:

Some of the serious side effects of Mefenamic acid are:

However, if you experience any of the following signs of a serious allergic reaction, stop taking mefenamic acid and seek medical attention immediately: rash/blisters, itching, swelling, extreme dizziness and difficulty breathing. Contact the doctor or pharmacist if you experience other adverse effects.

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What are the Precautions of Mefenamic?

Before taking Mefenamic acid talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. The product may contain some inactive ingredients which can cause some serious allergic reactions or some other serious problems. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this drug if you have: aspirin-sensitive asthma (history of worsening of runny/stuffy nose breathing after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs, serious kidney disease, recent heart bypass surgery).

Before using the medication talk with your doctor if you are having any medical history such as:

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How to take Mefenamic Acid?

Mefenamic acid comes as a tablet which should be taken orally. It is generally taken with food for up to 1 week every 6 hours as required. The dosage is dependent on the medical condition and therapy reaction. Take this drug at the lowest effective dosage for the shortest possible duration to reduce the risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects. Do not raise the dosage, take it more often, or take it longer than prescribed for a longer period of time. Usually, this drug should not be used for more than 7 days at a time.

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What are the Dosage Forms Available for Mefenamic?

Generic: Mefenamic acid

Dosage for mild to moderate pain

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

Dosage for Menstrual Pain

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What should be done if a Mefenamic dose is missed?

If a dose of this drug is missing, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, however, skip the skipped dose and go back to your routine for daily dosing. Do not use double doses.

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How Severe was the Overdose?

Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Mefenamic tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body’s functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.

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Warnings for people with Health Conditions

For people with Heart disease

Mefenamic acid can increase the risk of problems with your heart, including heart attack, stroke, or blood clotting. If you already have heart disease and take this drug for a longer period of time, the risk may be higher. Mefenamic acid can cause water retention and can exacerbate your high blood pressure or raise your risk of heart failure.

For people with Ulcer and Stomach Bleeding

Mefenamic acid raises the risk of stomach or bowel bleeding or ulcers. This can occur without any warning signs or symptoms at any time and without them. If you are older than 65, drink alcohol, or smoke cigarettes, you are at a higher risk for extreme stomach and intestinal bleeding.

For people with Asthma

Mefenamic acid can make the airways wider or narrower, which can be lethal. Get emergency medical aid if asthma gets worse. You shouldn't take this drug at all if you have asthma that is susceptible to aspirin or NSAIDs.

For Pregnant Women

Mefenamic acid in pregnant women has not been sufficiently studied. Speak to your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, as to whether this medication is appropriate for you.

Breastfeeding

Small amounts of mefenamic acid can transfer into your breast milk and cause your child to experience side effects. It might be appropriate for you and your doctor to determine whether to stop breastfeeding or stop taking mefenamic acid.

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How to Store Mefenamic Medicine?

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Mefenamic Acid Vs Paracetamol

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Citations

Environmental photodegradation of mefenamic acid