Mefenamic acid
Generic Details
Generic Name
Mefenamic Acid
Other Names
- Ponstel
- Ponstan
Drug Class
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Chemical Formula
C15H15NO2
Molecular Weight
241.28 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by blocking cyclooxygenase enzymes
Indications
- Treatment of mild to moderate pain
- Dysmenorrhea
- Fever
- Inflammation
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Capsule
Typical Dosage
- 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours as needed
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children under 18 years
Geriatric Dosage
- Use with caution due to increased risk of side effects
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
Contraindications
- History of allergic reaction to NSAIDs
- Active peptic ulcer disease
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Avoid if possible, excretion into breast milk reported
Drug Interactions
- Increased risk of bleeding with anticoagulants
- Reduced effect of diuretics
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Shallow breathing
- Unconsciousness
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, treatment is symptomatic and supportive
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Highly bound to plasma proteins
- Metabolism: Undergoes hepatic metabolism
- Excretion: Excreted in urine as metabolites
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
- Avoid in patients with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding
Warnings
- May increase risk of cardiovascular events and gastrointestinal bleeding
Others
- Do not use for long-term treatment