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# Mefenamic Acid (Meftal-P)
## Overview
Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the short-term management of mild to moderate pain.
## Primary Indications
* Pain associated with dysmenorrhea.
* Management of mild to moderate pain.
## Adult Dosing
* **Initial Dose:** 500 mg orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
* **Maximum Daily Dose:** 1500 mg orally.
* **Duration:** Typically for short-term use, not to exceed 7 days for self-medication.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Age 6 months to 12 years:** Data is limited and dosing should be guided by specific product labeling or local protocol. Some sources suggest 6.5 mg/kg orally every 8 hours.
## Dose Adjustments
* **Renal Impairment:** Use with caution. Data is limited, but dose reduction may be necessary in severe impairment.
* **Hepatic Impairment:** Use with caution. Data is limited, but dose reduction may be necessary in severe impairment.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or any component of the formulation.
* 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.
* Inflammatory bowel disease.
* Severe renal or hepatic impairment.
* Active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
## Adverse Effects
* **Common:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, headache, dizziness.
* **Serious:** Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, perforation; cardiovascular thrombotic events; renal toxicity; hepatic toxicity; hypersensitivity reactions; Stevens-Johnson syndrome; toxic epidermal necrolysis.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin):** Increased risk of bleeding.
* **Aspirin:** May decrease the cardioprotective effect of low-dose aspirin and increase the risk of adverse effects.
* **Corticosteroids:** Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
* **Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs:** May reduce antihypertensive effect and increase risk of renal impairment.
* **Lithium, Methotrexate:** Increased serum levels and risk of toxicity.
* **Other NSAIDs:** Additive effects, increased risk of adverse events.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., melena, hematemesis).
* Monitor for signs and symptoms of renal or hepatic dysfunction.
* Assess pain relief and for adverse effects regularly.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
* Due to potential for serious gastrointestinal events, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
* Avoid concurrent use with other NSAIDs.
* Patients with a history of asthma, allergies, or nasal polyps may be at increased risk for hypersensitivity reactions.
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***Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition. Please refer to the most current prescribing information and local guidelines for complete details.
