Mefenamic Acid - side effects, action, dosage, contraindications

Mefenamic acid is a type of medicine known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX). COX is involved in making substances in the body known as prostaglandins, in response to injury and in certain diseases and conditions. The prostaglandins cause pain, swelling and inflammation. Mefenamic acid doesn't completely stop the production of prostaglandins but reduces their production, thereby relieving inflammation and pain.

In addition to this, it also helps reduce fever by affecting the heat-regulating function of the brain. This dual action makes mefenamic acid an effective treatment for mild to moderate pain associated with inflammation and fever.

Mefenamic Acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is primarily used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with a variety of conditions. Below are some of the specific indications for Mefenamic Acid:

• Menstrual pain: Mefenamic Acid is widely prescribed to alleviate moderate to severe menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea. It works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, compounds that cause pain and inflammation in the body.
• General pain relief: Mefenamic Acid can be used to relieve mild to moderate pain from various conditions, including headaches, toothaches, and sprains. It is not intended for long-term use or to manage chronic conditions.
• Inflammatory conditions: Mefenamic Acid can also be used to reduce pain and inflammation associated with medical conditions such as arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

It's important to note that Mefenamic Acid should be used at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible duration to minimize the risk of adverse effects. Always consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

Mefenamic acid, like other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), is not suitable for everyone and some people should never use it. Certain people should only use it with special care. It is important that the person prescribing this medicine knows your full medical history.

• Under no circumstances should mefenamic acid be used by patients who have previously shown hypersensitivity to any of the components of the drug, including mefenamic acid itself.
• It is contraindicated in patients with active ulceration or chronic inflammation of the stomach or intestines.
• Patients with severe heart failure, liver failure, or kidney failure should avoid using mefenamic acid.
• It is also contraindicated in patients undergoing surgery for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG).
• Patients with known cases of asthma, urticaria, or allergic type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs should not use mefenamic acid.
• It should not be used in the last trimester of pregnancy as it may cause damage to the baby’s heart.
• Patients with a high risk of bleeding should not use mefenamic acid.
• It should not be used in children under 14 years of age.

It is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before starting mefenamic acid and to disclose all your current medications and medical conditions to avoid any potential contraindications.

Like all medicines, Mefenamic Acid can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The frequency of side effects is classified into the following categories: Very common (affects more than 1 user in 10), Common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100), Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000), Rare (affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000) and Very rare (affects less than 1 user in 10,000).

Common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Uncommon side effects are anemia, palpitations, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, dizziness, sleeplessness, rashes, uretic retention, and edema. Rare side effects are hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis), hallucinations, confusion, tinnitus, photosensitivity, kidney problems, and liver problems. Very rare side effects include blood disorders and severe skin reactions.

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system.

The dosage of Mefenamic Acid should be determined by a healthcare professional and is usually based on the patient’s condition and response to treatment. The drug is typically taken by mouth, as directed by a doctor, usually every 6 hours as needed. A typical dose for adults can range from 250 to 500 mg, while for children the dose is typically determined by body weight.

It's important to take Mefenamic Acid with food or milk to minimize the risk of an upset stomach. For menstrual pain, it is usually taken during the menstrual period for not more than 2 to 3 days. Take this medication at the first sign of pain or as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or take it for a longer time than prescribed because this may increase your risk of serious side effects.

Remember, Mefenamic Acid is a short-term treatment and should not be used for chronic conditions or for pain that isn't related to menstruation. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use of this medication.

Mefenamic acid is used to relieve moderate pain and reduce fever in adults. It's particularly effective in treating pain associated with menstruation, such as menstrual cramps. Mefenamic acid belongs to the class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, chemicals that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body.

It's important to use mefenamic acid as directed by your healthcare provider. It's usually taken orally with a full glass of water, with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, it may be taken with food, milk, or an antacid. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dose is also based on weight. To reduce your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, use this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.

Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. It's also important to not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this drug. If you have any questions about the usage of mefenamic acid, consult your healthcare provider.

Mefenamic Acid, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is used to relieve pain and inflammation, but there are certain precautions to be taken while using it. These precautions help to ensure the safe and effective use of the drug.

Firstly, Mefenamic Acid should not be taken if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other NSAID, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Signs of an allergic reaction can include skin rashes, breathing problems, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Before starting treatment, inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, asthma, or any blood clotting disorders. Mefenamic Acid may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, so it's crucial to monitor your health closely while taking this medication.

During the treatment, avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Also, limit your time in the sun as Mefenamic Acid can make you more sensitive to sunlight, leading to sunburn.

Pregnant women should use Mefenamic Acid only when clearly needed, and it's not recommended during the last trimester of pregnancy. It's also not recommended for use while breastfeeding without your doctor's advice.

Lastly, Mefenamic Acid may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, ACE inhibitors, lithium, and methotrexate. Therefore, always inform your doctor about all the medications you're currently taking.

Mefenamic acid may interact with several other medications, which can impact its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. These possible interactions should be considered before starting treatment with this drug. Notable interactions include:

• Anticoagulants: Mefenamic acid can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants such as warfarin.
• Diuretics: Mefenamic acid can decrease the effectiveness of diuretics, which are used to manage conditions like high blood pressure and edema.
• Other NSAIDs: Taking mefenamic acid with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding.
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs): Mefenamic acid can decrease the effectiveness of these medications, which are often used to manage high blood pressure.

It's essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you're taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal supplements. This will help avoid potential interactions and ensure the safe use of mefenamic acid.

The cost of Mefenamic Acid may vary depending on the pharmacy you visit, the strength of the medication, and the quantity you purchase. Typically, Mefenamic Acid is available in 250mg and 500mg tablets. The 250mg tablets are generally less expensive than the 500mg tablets. The price can also differ depending on whether you're buying brand name or generic Mefenamic Acid.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $60 for a bottle of 60 tablets of Mefenamic Acid at 250mg. The 500mg tablets can range from $40 to $100 for the same quantity. These prices are just estimates and the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on various factors.

It's important to note that many insurance plans may cover the cost of Mefenamic Acid, reducing the out-of-pocket expense for the patient. Additionally, there are often discount programs or coupons available from various pharmaceutical companies that can help reduce the cost of the medication.

Before making a purchase, it's advisable to compare prices from different pharmacies and consider the availability of any discount programs or insurance coverage. You can often find price comparison tools online that can help you find the best deal. Always ensure that you are purchasing your medication from a trusted and licensed pharmacy.

When considering substitutes for Mefenamic Acid, it's important to understand that they must be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Some common substitutes include:

• Ibuprofen: This is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, similar to Mefenamic Acid. However, it's not recommended for those with heart conditions or gastrointestinal issues.
• Naproxen: Another NSAID, Naproxen is used for similar purposes as Mefenamic Acid. It also has a longer duration of action than Mefenamic Acid.
• Aspirin: This is a salicylate and NSAID that can be used as a substitute for Mefenamic Acid for pain relief and inflammation. However, it may increase the risk of bleeding.

These substitutes have similar therapeutic uses as Mefenamic Acid but may have different side effects or interactions. It is critical to consult a healthcare professional before switching to a substitute to ensure it is safe and effective for your specific condition.