Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used short-term (7 days or less) to treat mild to moderate pain in adults and children who are at least 14 years old. Mefenamic acid is also used to treat menstrual pain.

Introduction

Generic name: Mefenamic acid

Brand name: Ponstel

Dosage form: oral capsule (250 mg)

Drug class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Storage : Store below 30°C

Uses

Pain relief

Benefits

  • Meftal 500 Tablet is a common painkiller used to treat aches and pains.

  • It blocks chemical messengers in the brain that tell us we have pain. It is effective in relieving pain caused by headache, migraine, nerve pain, toothache, sore throat, period (menstrual) pains, arthritis and muscle aches.

  • Take it as it is prescribed to get the most benefit. Do not take more or for longer than needed as that can be dangerous. In general, you should take the lowest dose that works, for the shortest possible time.

Directions for use

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Meftal 500 Tablet is to be taken with food.

How it works?

Meftal 500 Tablet is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers that cause fever, pain and inflammation (redness and swelling).

Side effects

Stop using mefenamic acid and seek medical treatment if you have a serious drug reaction that can affect many parts of your body. Symptoms may include skin rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, severe weakness, unusual bruising, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Mefenamic acid may cause serious side effects. Stop using mefenamic acid and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • Shortness of breath (even with mild exertion)

  • Swelling or rapid weight gain

  • Nausea, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms (fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, severe weakness)

  • A skin rash, no matter how mild

  • Signs of stomach bleeding–bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds

  • Liver problems–loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

  • Kidney problems–little or no urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath

  • Low red blood cells (anemia)–pale skin, unusual tiredness, feeling light-headed or short of breath, cold hands and feet.

Common side effects of mefenamic acid may include the following

  • Heartburn, stomach pain, gas, nausea, vomiting

  • Diarrhea, constipation

  • Dizziness.

Warnings

Mefenamic acid can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Do not use mefenamic acid just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Mefenamic acid may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal.

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