Please check your internet connection and try again.
## Mefenamic Acid (Meftal-P)
### Overview
Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for short-term relief of mild to moderate pain. It is a weak acid and has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties.
### Primary Indications
* Pain associated with menstruation (dysmenorrhea)
* Mild to moderate pain (e.g., headache, toothache, muscle pain)
### Adult Dosing
* **Initial dose:** 500 mg orally every 8 hours as needed.
* **Maximum daily dose:** 1500 mg.
* **Duration of use:** Generally recommended for short-term use only (up to 7 days).
### Pediatric Dosing
* **Children 12 years and older:** Dosing is the same as adults: 500 mg orally every 8 hours as needed.
* **Children under 12 years:** Mefenamic acid is generally not recommended due to lack of established safety and efficacy data. Consult local protocol or specialist.
### Dose Adjustments
* **Renal impairment:** Use with caution. Dose reduction may be necessary in severe impairment.
* **Hepatic impairment:** Use with caution. Dose reduction may be necessary in severe impairment.
### Contraindications
* Known hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs.
* History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
* Perioperative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
* Active gastrointestinal bleeding or history of recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding.
* Severe heart failure, renal impairment, or hepatic impairment.
* Third trimester of pregnancy.
### Adverse Effects
* **Common:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, constipation.
* **Serious:** Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, perforation; renal toxicity; hepatic toxicity; cardiovascular thrombotic events (MI, stroke); hypersensitivity reactions (including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis); bronchospasm; fluid retention and edema.
### Key Drug Interactions
* **Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin):** Increased risk of bleeding.
* **Corticosteroids:** Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
* **Other NSAIDs and Aspirin:** Increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and other adverse effects.
* **ACE inhibitors, ARBs, Beta-blockers:** May reduce antihypertensive effect and increase risk of renal dysfunction.
* **Diuretics:** May reduce diuretic and antihypertensive effects and increase risk of renal dysfunction.
* **Lithium, Methotrexate:** Increased serum levels and toxicity.
### Monitoring
* Monitor for signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., melena, hematemesis).
* Monitor renal and hepatic function, especially with prolonged use or in patients with pre-existing impairment.
* Monitor for signs of cardiovascular events or hypersensitivity reactions.
### Clinical Pearls
* Administer with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
* Should not be used for more than 7 days unless directed by a physician.
* May mask signs of infection.
***
*Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant guidelines before administering any medication. Dosing and recommendations may vary based on individual patient factors and local protocols.*
