Mefenamic Acid

Information about Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) used largely for acute treatment of pain. 

Liver safety of Mefenamic Acid

Mefanamic acid has been linked to rare instances of clinically apparent, acute liver injury.

Mechanism of action of Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic (mef" e nam' ik) acid belongs to the anthranilic acid derivative class of NSAIDs (fenamates).  Like other NSAIDs, mefenamic acid is a cyclo-oxygenase (Cox-1 and -2) inhibitor and blocks the production of intracellular prostaglandins that are important in pain and inflammatory pathways.  Mefenamic acid has analgesic as well as antipyretic and antiinflammatory activities, but is used largely for treatment of pain. 

FDA approval information for Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic acid was approved in the United States in 1967, but is not a commonly used agent.  Mefenamic acid is indicated for the treatment of mild-to-moderate acute pain or dysmenorrhea. 

Dosage and administration for Mefenamic Acid

It is available by prescription only in capsules of 250 and 500 mg in generic forms and under the brand name Ponstel. The recommended dose is 250 to 500 mg 3 to 4 times daily for periods of less than 7 days. 

Side effects of Mefenamic Acid

Like most NSAIDs, mefenamic acid is generally well tolerated, but side effects can include headache, dizziness, somnolence, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, heartburn, peripheral edema and hypersensitivity reactions.

Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Acetaminophen, Celecoxib, Diclofenac, Diflunisal, Etodolac, Fenoprofen, Flurbiprofen, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Ketoprofen, Ketorolac, Mefenamic Acid, Meloxicam, Nabumetone, Naproxen, Nimesulide, Oxaprozin, Phenylbutazone, Piroxicam, Rofecoxib, Sulindac, Tolmetin

• Dailymed label info on Mefenamic Acid
• FDA Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic Acid Resources
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