Mefenamic Acid Mercury Pharmaceuticals Ltd (Mefenamic Acid)

Mefenamic Acid is an NSAID that reduces inflammation and pain in several common conditions.

• Mild to moderate pain: provides analgesic relief for headaches, dental pain, postoperative discomfort, and similar ailments.
• Dysmenorrhea: lessens menstrual cramps and associated pelvic pain in women.
• Inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions: decreases pain and swelling in arthritis, sprains, and soft‑tissue injuries.

• Mefenamic Acid inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX‑1 and COX‑2) enzymes, which reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins involved in inflammation, pain signaling, and fever. By lowering prostaglandin levels, the drug diminishes peripheral sensitization and inflammatory responses, producing its analgesic and anti‑inflammatory effects.

Mefenamic Acid may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to rare but serious complications.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: occasional upset stomach.
• Abdominal pain: mild to moderate discomfort.
• Dyspepsia: indigestion or heartburn.
• Diarrhea: loose stools.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Headache: mild to moderate.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
• Renal impairment or reduced kidney function.
• Severe skin reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Anaphylaxis: life‑threatening allergic response.
• Hepatic dysfunction: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Blood dyscrasias: rare blood cell abnormalities.

Before prescribing Mefenamic Acid, clinicians should evaluate patient‑specific risk factors and monitor for adverse events.

• Renal function assessment: check baseline kidney status, especially in the elderly.
• Gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with a history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Concomitant anticoagulants: use caution and monitor coagulation parameters.
• Hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Pregnancy and lactation: safety not established; avoid unless clearly needed.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Mefenamic Acid can alter the activity of several other medicines; interactions are grouped by clinical significance.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• ACE inhibitors: possible reduction in antihypertensive effect.
• Lithium: elevated lithium serum concentrations.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Diuretics: potential reduction in renal perfusion.
• SSRIs or SNRIs: additive bleeding risk.
• Corticosteroids: increased ulcer risk.
• Antihypertensives: possible attenuation of blood‑pressure control.
• Oral hypoglycemics: may affect blood‑sugar regulation.