Please check your internet connection and try again.
## Mefenamic Acid (Meftal-P)
### Overview
Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the anthranilic acid derivative class. It exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, thereby reducing prostaglandin synthesis.
### Primary Indications
* Short-term management of mild to moderate pain.
* Management of primary dysmenorrhea.
### Adult Dosing
* **Pain:** 500 mg orally every 6 hours as needed.
* **Dysmenorrhea:** 500 mg orally every 6 hours, usually starting with the onset of pain and continuing for no more than 3 days.
### Pediatric Dosing
* Mefenamic acid is generally **not recommended for children under 14 years of age** due to lack of established safety and efficacy data and potential for increased risk of adverse effects. Dosing in specific pediatric populations may be determined by local protocol or specialist guidance.
### Dose Adjustments
* No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment, but caution is advised due to potential for adverse effects in these populations.
### Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.
* History of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation related to prior NSAID use.
* Active or history of recurrent peptic ulceration or hemorrhage.
* Severe heart failure.
* Third trimester of pregnancy.
* Conditions where aspirin or other NSAIDs induce asthma, urticaria, or allergic rhinitis.
### Adverse Effects
* **Common:** Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, headache.
* **Serious:** Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, perforation; renal impairment; cardiovascular events (MI, stroke); hypersensitivity reactions; hepatotoxicity.
### Key Drug Interactions
* **Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin):** Increased risk of bleeding.
* **Corticosteroids:** Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
* **Other NSAIDs or Salicylates:** Increased risk of adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal.
* **Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs:** May reduce antihypertensive effects and increase risk of renal impairment.
* **Lithium:** May increase serum lithium levels.
* **Methotrexate:** May increase methotrexate toxicity.
### Monitoring
* Monitor for signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
* Assess renal and hepatic function, especially with prolonged use or in patients with pre-existing conditions.
* Monitor for cardiovascular risk factors and signs of events.
### Clinical Pearls
* Limit use to the shortest effective duration to minimize risks.
* Administer with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
* Should not be used for longer than 7 days for pain management.
***
*Please verify the current prescribing information for the most up-to-date and complete details before making any clinical decisions.*
