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Mefenamic: Side Effects, Dosage and Precautions

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.

Mefenamic acid Uses

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

Mefenamic Side effects

Some of the common side effects of Mefenamic acid are:

  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Heartburn
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Rash
  • Tinnitus

Some of the serious side effects of Mefenamic acid are:

  • Heart attack or stroke
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness on one side of the body
  • Abnormal weight gain
  • Severe stomach cramp
  • Blood vomiting
  • Tiredness
  • Nausea
  • Itching
  • 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.

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.

Precautions

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:

  • Asthma
  • Bleeding or clotting problems
  • Blood disorders
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Liver disease
  • Obesity

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.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Generic: Mefenamic acid

  • Form: oral capsule Strengths 250 mg
  • Form: oral capsule Strengths 250 mg

Dosage for mild to moderate pain

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

  • Starting dosage should be 500 mg and after that, the dosage should be 250 mg every six hours.

Dosage for Menstrual Pain

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

-Starting dose is 500 mg and after that, the dosage should be 250 mg in every 6 hours.

Missed Dose

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.

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.

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.

Storage

Store it away from light and moisture at room temperature between 68-77º F (20-25º C). Brief storage is allowed between 59-86º F (15-30º C). Keep all medication away from pets and children

Fondaparinux vs Heparin:

Mefenamic acid

Paracetamol
Mefenamic acid is an anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drug that is (NSAID). Mefenamic acid works by reducing the hormones which cause inflammation and pain in the body. Paracetamol is a painkiller and works as a fever reducer. The paracetamol tablets are used for treating headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, backache, body ache and fevers.
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. Paracetamol is used for the following treating the following diseases:
  • Headaches
  • Menstrual
  • Toothaches
  • Backaches
  • Osteoarthritis
Some of the common side effects of Mefenamic acid are:
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Heartburn
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
 Some common side effects of paracetamol are:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Swelling
  • Pain

Citations

Mefenamic, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0045653504009014
Effects of Mefenamic, https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2008.0311

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does mefenamic acid do to the body?

Mefenamic acid is an anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drug that is (NSAID). By reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body, mefenamic acid works. 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.

Does mefenamic acid have side effects?

Yes, mefenamic acid has some of the side effects. Some of the common side effects of Mefenamic acid are:

  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Heartburn
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea

Can I take paracetamol with mefenamic acid?

Using paracetamol is good. When you are taking mefenamic acid, take co-codamol or codeine. Mefenamic acid should not be used in conjunction with orally administered pain-relieving doses of aspirin or any other NSAID, such as ibuprofen, celecoxib, or diclofenac, as this raises the risk of stomach and intestinal side effects.

How many times a day should I take mefenamic acid?

The normal dosage is 500 mg, taken in two capsules of 250 mg or one 500 mg tablet. Three times a day, you'll be asked to take this dose. If you use it for periods of pain, your doctor would probably recommend that you take it every month for a few days, beginning on your first day of bleeding.

How long does mefenamic acid take to relieve pain?

The oral capsule of Mefenamic Acid is used for short-term therapy. The medication typically lasts no more than seven days if you use it for mild to moderate pain. Treatment typically lasts no more than two or three days if you are using it for menstrual cramps.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.