Mefenamic Acid Teva (Mefenamic Acid)

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

• Mild to moderate pain: provides analgesic relief for acute or chronic pain episodes.
• Dysmenorrhea: alleviates menstrual cramps and associated discomfort.
• Inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions: reduces swelling and improves mobility in conditions such as arthritis.

• Mefenamic Acid exerts its effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes COX‑1 and COX‑2, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The resulting decrease in prostaglandin synthesis diminishes inflammation, pain signaling, and fever generation at the site of tissue injury. By limiting prostaglandin‑mediated vasodilation and sensitization of nociceptors, the drug contributes to reduced edema and heightened pain threshold. These actions collectively provide the therapeutic benefit observed in clinical use.

Mefenamic Acid may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Diarrhea: loose stools occurring intermittently.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness: transient sensation of light‑headedness.
• Skin rash: mild erythema or itching.
• Mouth ulcers: painful lesions on oral mucosa.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding: potentially life‑threatening hemorrhage.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function or acute renal failure.
• Severe hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis, angioedema or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.

When prescribing Mefenamic Acid, clinicians should consider several precautionary measures to minimize risk.

• Assess renal function: avoid use in patients with severe renal impairment.
• Evaluate gastrointestinal risk: use with caution in history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Monitor cardiovascular status: NSAIDs may increase risk of thrombotic events.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest necessary period.
• Pregnancy and lactation: avoid in the third trimester and assess benefit‑risk in pregnancy.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in the original packaging, protected from moisture.

Mefenamic Acid can interact with other medicines, altering its efficacy or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): elevated risk of bleeding.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce antihypertensive effect and impair renal function.
• Diuretics: potential for reduced diuretic efficacy and renal compromise.
• Lithium: NSAIDs can increase lithium serum concentrations.