Mefenamic Acid
Generic Name:
Mefenamic acid
Brand Names:
Ponstel
Mefenamic Acid Description:
Mefenamic acid belongs to a class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The medication is used to treat mild to moderate pain, including menstrual discomfort. While the exact mechanism of mefenamic acid is unknown, experts believe the medication, like other NSAIDs, works at least in part by inhibiting prostaglandin, a substance that promotes inflammation, pain and fever.
Mefenamic Acid Side Effects:
Some common side effects of mefenamic acid include:
- Stomach pain
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Indigestion, gas and heartburn
- Dizziness
- Swelling
- Headache
- Tinnitus
For more information, see our mefenamic acid side effects page.
Mefenamic Acid Uses:
Mefenamic acid is used in the short-term treatment of mild to moderate pain in patients at least 14 years of age. The medication is also specifically indicated for the treatment of menstrual pain in women.
Mefenamic Acid Interactions:
Mefenamic acid may interact with the following medications:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
- Aspirin
- Diuretics
- Lithium
- Methotrexate
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants
- Antacids
Mefenamic acid may interact with other medications or substances that are not listed above. In order to avoid potentially hazardous interactions, patients should talk with their doctor about the use of any other medicines, vitamins or supplements before beginning treatment with mefenamic acid.
Mefenamic Acid Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Mefenamic acid dosages may vary among patients. Your doctor will determine the size and frequency of your dosage according to your individual needs. Patients should follow the dosage guidelines established by their doctor.
Mefenamic acid is administered in the form of a 250 mg oral capsule. Patients typically take an initial dose of 500 mg followed by 250 mg every six hours as needed.
Mefenamic acid is only intended for short-term use. Patients should not take the medication for more than one week.
Missing a Dose of Mefenamic acid
Because mefenamic acid is typically used as needed, patients may not necessarily follow a specific dosage schedule. However, if you are following a regular dosage schedule and miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not consume a double dose of mefenamic acid to compensate for a missed dose.
Mefenamic acid Overdose
Symptoms of a mefenamic acid overdose may include:
- Lethargy
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Epigastric pain
A mefenamic acid overdose can result in other, more serious complications. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they have taken too much of this medication.
Mefenamic Acid FDA Approval:
March 28, 1967
Mefenamic Acid Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Mefenamic acid, like other NSAIDs, carries a black box warning informing consumers and health care professionals that the medication may cause an increased risk of blood clots, heart attack and stroke. The risk of experiencing these events increases with longer NSAID use and is more pronounced in patients already at risk for heart disease due to a history of smoking, obesity or other factors.
Mefenamic acid's black box warning also states the medication should not be used in the treatment of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Additionally, the black box warning states that NSAIDs like mefenamic acid increase the risk of serious and potentially life-threatening gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration and perforation. These conditions can occur in the absence of warning signs. Elderly patients are at particularly high risk of developing these complications.
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September 9, 2010, 3:38 pm
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September 7, 2010, 9:59 am
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September 2, 2010, 12:51 pm
