How does mefenamic acid work for pain relief. What are the recommended dosages of mefenamic acid. What are the potential side effects of taking mefenamic acid. Is mefenamic acid available over the counter or by prescription only.

What is Mefenamic Acid and How Does it Work?

Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat mild to moderate pain, including menstrual cramps. It belongs to the same class of medications as ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib. Mefenamic acid works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.

The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but mefenamic acid is thought to inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. By blocking these enzymes, it decreases the synthesis of prostaglandins, thereby reducing pain and inflammation in the body.

Key Points About Mefenamic Acid:

• Belongs to the NSAID class of medications
• Reduces prostaglandin production in the body
• Used for mild to moderate pain relief, especially menstrual pain
• Available by prescription only in most countries

Common Uses and Indications for Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic acid is primarily prescribed for the following conditions:

1. Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)
2. Mild to moderate pain
3. Headaches
4. Dental pain
5. Arthritis pain

While it is most commonly used for menstrual pain, mefenamic acid can be effective for various types of mild to moderate pain. However, it is not typically used as a first-line treatment for chronic pain conditions.

Is mefenamic acid effective for all types of pain?

Mefenamic acid is not universally effective for all types of pain. It works best for mild to moderate pain, particularly menstrual cramps. For severe pain or chronic conditions, other medications or treatment approaches may be more appropriate. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best pain management strategy for your specific situation.

Dosage and Administration of Mefenamic Acid

The dosage of mefenamic acid can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. However, some general guidelines include:

• For menstrual pain: 500 mg as an initial dose, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed
• For mild to moderate pain: 500 mg as an initial dose, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed
• Maximum daily dose: 1000 mg (1 gram) per day

It’s important to note that mefenamic acid should be taken with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset. The duration of treatment should be limited to the shortest period necessary to control symptoms, typically no more than 7 days for acute pain or one menstrual cycle for menstrual cramps.

Can the dosage of mefenamic acid be adjusted?

Yes, the dosage of mefenamic acid can be adjusted by a healthcare provider based on individual patient response and tolerability. Some patients may require higher or lower doses depending on their pain severity and other medical factors. Never adjust the dosage on your own without consulting a healthcare professional.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Like all medications, mefenamic acid can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Stomach upset or pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness

More serious side effects, although rare, can include:

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration
• Cardiovascular events (e.g., heart attack, stroke)
• Allergic reactions
• Liver or kidney problems

Precautions should be taken when using mefenamic acid, especially in patients with a history of gastrointestinal problems, cardiovascular disease, or impaired kidney or liver function. It’s also important to avoid using mefenamic acid during the last trimester of pregnancy.

How can the risk of side effects be minimized?

To minimize the risk of side effects when taking mefenamic acid:

1. Take the medication with food or milk
2. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible
3. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking the medication
4. Do not exceed the recommended dosage
5. Inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking

Interactions with Other Medications

Mefenamic acid can interact with various other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some important drug interactions to be aware of include:

• Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): Increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Increased risk of bleeding
• ACE inhibitors and ARBs: Potential for reduced effectiveness of blood pressure medications
• Diuretics: Increased risk of kidney problems
• Methotrexate: Increased risk of methotrexate toxicity
• Lithium: Potential for increased lithium levels in the blood

It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting mefenamic acid.

Are there any foods or beverages that should be avoided while taking mefenamic acid?

While there are no specific food restrictions for mefenamic acid, it’s generally advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication. Alcohol can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and staying well-hydrated can help support overall health and potentially reduce the risk of side effects.

Availability and Prescription Requirements

Mefenamic acid is a prescription-only medication in most countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. It is not available over the counter due to its potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

To obtain mefenamic acid, you will need to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your condition and determine if this medication is appropriate for you. They will consider factors such as your medical history, current medications, and the nature of your pain before prescribing mefenamic acid.

Can mefenamic acid be purchased online?

While some online pharmacies may offer mefenamic acid, it’s important to exercise caution when purchasing medications online. Always ensure that you are using a reputable, licensed pharmacy and that you have a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. In many countries, it is illegal to purchase prescription medications without a proper prescription.

Alternatives to Mefenamic Acid

For those who cannot take mefenamic acid or prefer alternative options, there are several other medications and treatments available for pain relief, particularly for menstrual cramps:

• Other NSAIDs: Ibuprofen, naproxen, or ketoprofen
• Acetaminophen (paracetamol)
• Hormonal birth control methods (for menstrual pain)
• Heat therapy (e.g., heating pads or warm baths)
• Exercise and stretching
• Dietary changes (e.g., reducing caffeine and salt intake)
• Herbal supplements (e.g., ginger, cinnamon, or chamomile tea)

It’s important to discuss these alternatives with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate option for your specific situation.

Are natural alternatives as effective as mefenamic acid?

The effectiveness of natural alternatives can vary greatly among individuals. While some people find relief from methods like heat therapy, exercise, or herbal supplements, others may require pharmaceutical interventions like mefenamic acid for adequate pain relief. Natural alternatives often have fewer side effects but may not be as potent or fast-acting as medications. It’s best to work with a healthcare provider to find the most effective pain management strategy for your needs.

Special Considerations for Long-Term Use

While mefenamic acid can be effective for short-term pain relief, long-term use should be approached with caution. Prolonged use of NSAIDs, including mefenamic acid, can increase the risk of certain side effects and complications.

Some considerations for long-term use include:

1. Increased risk of gastrointestinal problems, including ulcers and bleeding
2. Potential for cardiovascular events, especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions
3. Risk of kidney damage, particularly in elderly patients or those with kidney disease
4. Possible liver function abnormalities
5. Development of tolerance, where the medication becomes less effective over time

If long-term pain management is necessary, it’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor for potential side effects and explore alternative treatment options when appropriate.

How often should patients be monitored when using mefenamic acid long-term?

For patients using mefenamic acid long-term, regular monitoring is crucial. This typically involves:

• Periodic blood tests to check liver and kidney function
• Regular blood pressure checks
• Assessment of gastrointestinal symptoms
• Evaluation of pain control effectiveness

The frequency of monitoring may vary depending on individual risk factors and overall health status. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate monitoring schedule based on your specific situation.

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Mefenamic Acid – Overview

Mefenamic acid is a medication sometimes prescribed to people who need relief from mild pain, including menstrual pain. People who might need a mefenamic acid prescription can use Push Health to connect with a local medical provider who can prescribe mefenamic acid medication, including mefenamic acid 500 mg and mefenamic acid 250 mg tablets, when appropriate to do so.

Mefenamic Acid – Dosage and Cost

Mefenamic acid is sometimes marketed under the brand Ponstel and, like celecoxib (Celebrex), ibuprofen (Motrin), meloxicam (Mobic) and naproxen (Naprosyn), belongs to a class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Mefenamic acid can help bring relief from mild to moderate pain, including menstrual pain, and potentially other pain syndromes. It is not entirely clear how mefenamic acid exerts its actions but it may involve modulation of prostaglandins in the body. Mefenamic acid is sometimes prescribed with a loading dose of mefenamic acid 500 mg followed by mefenamic acid 250 mg at various times during the day, depending on the health needs of the patient. Mefenamic acid tablets are moderately affordable, costing approximately $4 per mefenamic acid tablet at many pharmacies in the United States. Mefenamic acid coupons may help reduce the cost of a mefenamic acid prescription and some insurance plans may help with costs associated with a mefenamic acid prescription.

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Can I Buy Mefenamic Acid Online?

Mefenamic acid requires a prescription to be obtained at a pharmacy in the United States. Due to this restriction, mefenamic acid OTC is not available and it is not possible to just buy mefenamic acid online as the initial step is getting a mefenamic acid prescription from a licensed medical provider. People who might need a mefenamic acid prescription, however, can connect with a licensed provider through Push Health who can prescribe mefenamic acid medication, including mefenamic acid 500 mg and mefenamic acid 250 mg tablets, when appropriate to do so.

Mefenamic Acid – Side Effects

Mefenamic acid prescription medication can cause side effects such as nausea, abdominal discomfort, vomiting and fatigue. People with a history of liver problems should generally avoid using mefenamic acid medication. Mefenamic acid can cause kidney dysfunction, particularly when used excessively. Prior to using mefenamic acid tablets, questions and concerns should be discussed with a pharmacist and qualified medical provider. Mefenamic acid and alcohol should generally not be used together. People with an allergy to mefenamic acid or similar medications should avoid using mefenamic acid prescription medication.

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More Mefenamic Acid Information

• Mefenamic Acid – Medline

Last updated March 21, 2022. Given the evolving nature of medicine and science, this information might not be accurate and should not be construed as medical advice or diagnosis / treatment recommendations. Please consult a licensed medical provider if you have additional questions. Please call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency room if you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency.

Mefenamic acid capsules 250 mg №20

Mefenamic acid is a drug from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The active substance, mefenamic acid, belongs to anthranilic acid derivatives, the molecular structure is similar to salicylic acid. The substance was developed by the pharmaceutical company Parke, Davis & Company, the first patent for mefenamic acid was obtained in 1961. Immunomodulatory properties began to be studied from 1980s.

Mefenamic acid has various trade names and may also be included in a combination drug.

The main therapeutic effects of Mefenamic acid on the body:

analgesic – a central effect on pain sensitivity, as well as local activity in the focus of inflammation; anti-inflammatory – prevents the production of inflammatory mediators and reduces the permeability of the vascular walls; antipyretic – inhibits the synthesis of hypothalamic enzymes and prostaglandins, has a direct effect on the center of thermoregulation; immunomodulatory – stimulates the production of interferons and increases the functional activity of T-lymphocytes.

The drug is approved for use in children of different ages:

in the form of capsules of 250 mg and 500 mg is recommended for children over 12 years of age; 500 mg tablets are used in patients older than 5 years.

Adhere to prescribed dosages to avoid adverse effects, which are most commonly seen in the gastrointestinal tract.

A special condition for the use of mefenamic acid is taking the drug after meals and washing down the tablets with milk.

The drug is indicated for acute respiratory infections, influenza, pain of varying intensity, as well as inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Mefenamic acid is used both as monotherapy and in combination with other drugs. The synergism of the immunomodulatory effect of Mefenamic acid and antiviral drugs has been proven.

The duration of the effect after taking the drug at a dose of 500 mg is up to 8 hours.

Clinical trials have shown a reduction in the duration of the course of the disease and a decrease in the intensity of symptoms in ARVI and influenza. Mefenamic acid also reduces the risk of post-influenza complications. In the course of observations, no serious side effects were registered when following the recommendations for use.

To rule out threatening symptoms and make a correct diagnosis, it is necessary to consult with your doctor.

Indications

Acute respiratory viral infections and influenza.

Primary dysmenorrhea. Dysfunctional menorrhagia.

Inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system: rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatism, Bechterew’s disease.

Pain syndrome of low and moderate intensity: muscle, articular, traumatic, dental, headache of various etiologies, postoperative and postpartum pain.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to drug components. Bronchospasm, Quincke’s edema, rhinitis, bronchial asthma, history of urticaria that occurred after the use of acetylsalicylic acid or other NSAIDs. Simultaneous administration of specific COX-2 inhibitors. Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, including a history, inflammatory bowel disease, diseases of the hematopoietic organs, severe heart failure, severe liver or kidney dysfunction, gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation caused by taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, treatment of pain after coronary artery surgery bypass.

Dosage and administration

Take orally, take the drug after meals.

Adults and children over 12 years old, 250-500 mg 3-4 times a day. If necessary, the dose can be increased to 3 g per day. After achieving a therapeutic effect, the daily dose should be reduced to 1 g.

The course of treatment for diseases of the joints can last from 20 days to 2 months or more. In the treatment of pain syndrome, the course of treatment lasts up to 7 days.

Overdose

Symptoms: epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, headache, rarely – diarrhea, disorientation, agitation, tinnitus, loss of consciousness, sometimes convulsions (mefenamic acid tends to induce tonic-clonic convulsions in overdose). In severe cases – gastrointestinal bleeding, respiratory depression, arterial hypertension, twitching of certain muscle groups, coma. In cases of significant poisoning, renal and hepatic failure is possible.

Treatment: no specific antidote. Gastric lavage with activated charcoal suspension. Alkalinization of urine, forced diuresis. Symptomatic therapy. Hemosorption and hemodialysis are ineffective due to the strong binding of mefenamic acid to blood proteins. Kidney and liver function should be carefully monitored. Frequent or prolonged seizures should be treated with intravenous diazepam.

Composition

Active ingredient per capsule – mefenamic acid – 250 mg

Excipients: talc; lactose, monohydrate; corn starch; sodium lauryl sulfate; silicon dioxide; magnesium stearate;

Storage conditions

Store in the original container at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of the reach of children.

Shelf life – 3 years.

Antipyretic drugs for children and adults – features of choice and administration

In our latitudes, the season of influenza, SARS and acute respiratory infections is about to begin. All these diseases are usually accompanied by fever. What drugs and what category of patients can be recommended? And does this pandemic season have its own characteristics?

COVID-19 is spreading rapidly. Virologist Nadezhda Zholobak told us in more detail about him earlier. It is known that the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which caused the pandemic, turned out to be so unpredictable that it made even the simplest, long-proven and time-tested medical technologies questionable. Even routine prescriptions for symptomatic treatment, such as temperature reduction, for example, need to be adjusted to the specifics of the current situation.

How can a pharmacist influence the choice of medication for fever today?

“First of all, pharmacists and pharmacists can play a significant role in increasing people’s adherence to vaccination,” notes Natalia Peshkova, a physician of the highest category. – I mean not only anti-influenza vaccines, but also those included in the National Calendar. Already, there are reports that some countries may face a twindemic problem – seasonal flu + COVID-19Unfortunately, one does not interfere with the other. In all previous years, less than 1% of the population was vaccinated against the flu, perhaps now the situation will change. In addition, the pharmacist/pharmacist may be faced with the need to differentiate between acute respiratory disease, influenza, coronavirus infection. With the latter, of course, it is more difficult, since it can be asymptomatic. Today, almost the only pathognomonic symptoms of a mild course of coronavirus are hyposmia or, more often, anosmia (complete loss of smell) and taste inversion. Therefore, if such complaints are made to the pharmacist, it is necessary, according to the current Protocol, to refer the person to a doctor to clarify the cause of such a condition and exclude/confirm coronavirus. The temperature in this case may be within the normal range or slightly elevated. But in the case of other infections, including SARS, acute respiratory infections, and especially influenza, the fever is quite high. But the patient should always be reminded that a fever of less than 38°C does not require treatment for all patients except those at high risk of severe underlying pathology.

In addition, the pharmacist, of course, should remind about age dosages, the peculiarities of taking the drug and the need to consult a doctor in case of any adverse reactions.

What temperature is considered normal and why is its increase a marker of normal immunity?

It is probably worth reminding that an increase in body temperature is an adequate response of the body to an infection (almost all acute infectious diseases are accompanied by it), inflammation, trauma, hormonal imbalance and stress. But besides being a signal, it is also a defense mechanism capable of:

• retard or kill pathogens;
• stimulate the immune system to produce substances to protect the body from infection (interferon, antibodies, etc.), increase the phagocytic activity of blood leukocytes;
• activate metabolic processes, thereby preventing intoxication.

It is important to remember that not only the infectious process can cause an increase in temperature. For example, it could be a stroke!

So temperature is good news, because it is a normal response of the immune system. In people with a weakened immune system, as a rule, the temperature is not understood above 37. 2 – 37.5 ° C.

Without delving into the issues of gender, age and other differences in thermoregulation, let me remind you that it is customary to consider a temperature from 35.5 to 37.2 °C with an average daily fluctuation of 0.5 to 1.0 °C.

Ways to measure temperature

By the way, when a pharmacist dispenses a thermometer to a visitor, you need to be reminded of the features of electronic and traditional mercury thermometers and how the temperature depends on the place of measurement:

• rectally (in the anus), vagina or ear – 37.5 °C
• oral (in the mouth) – 37.0 °C
• axillary (in the armpit) – 36.6 °C.

There are other specific features of temperature measurement, for example, in the first week after childbirth, while lactation is established, women sometimes measure the temperature in the elbow bend, since it will not be objective in the armpit (more often, about 38 ° C).

How to measure temperature

As for the device for measuring temperature, a mercury thermometer is considered the most accurate. It is no coincidence that it is also used to control other devices – electronic and infrared thermometers. In addition, it is easy to disinfect, which is important.

On the other hand, electronic thermometers (including those with a soft tip) have the great advantage of being safe to use.

At what temperature are antipyretics needed?

In most cases, if the temperature is below 38.5°C, do not rush to bring it down. As mentioned earlier, fever in viral diseases is rather a blessing than a problem that needs to be eliminated. The whole question is how a person carries it. After all, pyrogens provoke a number of changes in the body – from vasospasm, heart palpitations, increased blood pressure to an increase in the level of glucose and lactic acid in the blood. Therefore, we all tolerate a rise in temperature in different ways: someone can do without medical interventions at a temperature of 38.5 ° C and even 39.5°C. With one caveat – if this is an adult without concomitant pathology: neurological, cardiovascular diseases and so on. In this case, in the first two days, bed rest and plenty of fluids are enough. But, if the temperature remains high for more than 3 days, you can not do without antipyretic drugs.

In some cases, already at temperatures above 38°C, it is necessary to use antipyretic drugs in order not to provoke decompensation of the underlying disease. And in people with a weakened immune system, in particular, in elderly people , against the background of high temperature, complications can develop in the form of oxygen starvation, respiratory, heart failure, liver, kidney and nervous system functions are impaired.

Children , due to the risk of febrile convulsions, are recommended to bring down the temperature above 38.5 ° C with antipyretic drugs. It is important to recall that acetylsalicylic acid is categorically contraindicated for children! Its use is associated with the risk of developing a severe pathology – Reye’s syndrome (acute liver failure or “White liver disease”). Therefore, whatever the cause of the fever – influenza, measles or chickenpox, all drugs containing acetylsalicylic acid should be excluded! In addition, it should be recalled what side effects acetylsalicylic acid has.

There are some recommendations for the treatment of fever during pregnancy, – recalls Natalia Silina, candidate of medical sciences, gynecologist-endocrinologist of the highest category. – During this period, the woman’s immunity is depressed, so the risk of infection increases, and the reaction to infection can be very fast – within a few hours after meeting with the virus, and the temperature can rise to 40 ° C. The course of the disease and its consequences for the fetus depend on the trimester. Taking into account the trimester, preparations for the treatment of the expectant mother are also selected. But the doctor who leads her pregnancy should deal with the treatment of such a patient. Usually, therapy differs little from that for other adults, and, most likely, just like other patients, the doctor will advise pregnant women not to rush to bring down fever to 38 ° C with antipyretic drugs. The mark of 38.5 ° C is the threshold for lowering the temperature in pregnant women.

What antipyretic drugs are used today, taking into account the COVID-19 pandemic

Antipyretic drugs in Ukraine are drugs that can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription. They are represented by two groups of drugs:

• analgesics-antipyretics (paracetamol and metamizole sodium). These drugs have antipyretic and analgesic effects.
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, naproxen, ketoprofen, mefenamic acid and a number of other combined drugs). In addition to antipyretic and analgesic action, they have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.

Combined preparations are used for symptomatic treatment of acute respiratory viral infections. They usually include paracetamol, levocetirizine hydrochloride, the sweetener erythritol (for patients with diabetes or being overweight), phenylephrine (a decongestant to eliminate the symptoms of rhinorrhea, headache, etc.