Mefenamic Acid
Generic Name: mefenamic acid
Brand Names:
Mefenamic Acid
DESCRIPTION Mefenamic acid is a member of the fenamate group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Each green-banded, yellow capsule contains 250 mg of mefenamic acid for oral administration. Mefenamic acid is a white to greyish-white, odorless, microcrystalline powder with a melting point of 230°-231°C and water solubility of 0.004% at pH 7.1. The chemical name is N-2,3-xylylanthranilic acid. The molecular weight is 241.29.
Overview
DESCRIPTION Mefenamic acid is a member of the fenamate group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Each green-banded, yellow capsule contains 250 mg of mefenamic acid for oral administration. Mefenamic acid is a white to greyish-white, odorless, microcrystalline powder with a melting point of 230°-231°C and water solubility of 0.004% at pH 7.1. The chemical name is N-2,3-xylylanthranilic acid. The molecular weight is 241.29.
Uses
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of mefenamic acid and other treatment options before deciding to use mefenamic acid. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals ( see WARNINGS ). Mefenamic acid is indicated: For relief of mild to moderate pain in patients ≥14 years of age, when therapy will not exceed one week (7 days). For treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.
Dosage
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of mefenamic acid and other treatment options before deciding to use mefenamic acid. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals ( see WARNINGS ). After observing the response to initial therapy with mefenamic acid, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient's needs. For the relief of acute pain in adults and adolescents ≥14 years of age, the recommended dose is 500 mg as an initial dose followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed, usually not to exceed one week.
Side Effects
ADVERSE REACTIONS In patients taking mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs, the most frequently reported adverse experiences occurring in approximately 1-10% of patients are: Gastrointestinal experiences including - abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, gross bleeding/perforation, heartburn, nausea, GI ulcers (gastric/duodenal), vomiting, abnormal renal function, anemia, dizziness, edema, elevated liver enzymes, headaches, increased bleeding time, pruritus, rashes, tinnitus.
Interactions
Drug Interactions A number of compounds are inhibitors of CYP2C9. Drug interactions studies of mefenamic acid and these compounds have not been conducted. The possibility of altered safety and efficacy should be considered when mefenamic acid is used concomitantly with these drugs. ACE-inhibitors Reports suggest that NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of ACE-inhibitors. This interaction should be given consideration in patients taking NSAIDs concomitantly with ACE-inhibitors. Aspirin When mefenamic acid is administered with aspirin, its protein binding is reduced, although the clearance of free mefenamic acid is not altered.
Warnings
BOXED WARNING Cardiovascular Risk NSAIDs may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with duration of use. Patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be at greater risk ( See WARNINGS ). Mefenamic acid is contraindicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery ( See WARNINGS ). WARNINGS CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events Clinical trials of several COX-2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. All NSAIDs, both COX-2 selective and nonselective, may have a similar risk. Patients with known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease may be at greater risk. To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in patients treated with an NSAID, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. CONTRAINDICATIONS Mefenamic acid is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid. Mefenamic acid should not be given to patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category C. Reproductive studies conducted in rats and rabbits have not demonstrated evidence of developmental abnormalities. However, animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response. There are no adequate or well controlled studies in pregnant women. Mefenamic acid should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Storage
Storage Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mefenamic Acid used for?▼
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of mefenamic acid and other treatment options before deciding to use mefenamic acid. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals ( see WARNINGS ). Mefenamic acid is indicated: For relief of mild to moderate pain in patients ≥14 years of age, when therapy will not exceed one week (7 days). For treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.
What are the side effects of Mefenamic Acid?▼
ADVERSE REACTIONS In patients taking mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs, the most frequently reported adverse experiences occurring in approximately 1-10% of patients are: Gastrointestinal experiences including - abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, gross bleeding/perforation, heartburn, nausea, GI ulcers (gastric/duodenal), vomiting, abnormal renal function, anemia, dizziness, edema, elevated liver enzymes, headaches, increased bleeding time, pruritus, rashes, tinnitus.
Can I take Mefenamic Acid during pregnancy?▼
Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category C. Reproductive studies conducted in rats and rabbits have not demonstrated evidence of developmental abnormalities. However, animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response. There are no adequate or well controlled studies in pregnant women. Mefenamic acid should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
What are the important warnings for Mefenamic Acid?▼
BOXED WARNING Cardiovascular Risk NSAIDs may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with duration of use. Patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be at greater risk ( See WARNINGS ). Mefenamic acid is contraindicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery ( See WARNINGS ). WARNINGS CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events Clinical trials of several COX-2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. All NSAIDs, both COX-2 selective and nonselective, may have a similar risk. Patients with known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease may be at greater risk. To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in patients treated with an NSAID, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. CONTRAINDICATIONS Mefenamic acid is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid. Mefenamic acid should not be given to patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
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Medical Disclaimer
This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.