Mefenamic Acid – Everything You Need to Know

When working with mefenamic acid, a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation. Also known as Mefenamic, it blocks cyclo‑oxygenase (COX) enzymes, lowering prostaglandin production and thereby reducing swelling, fever, and discomfort. It belongs to the broader class of NSAIDs, drugs that inhibit COX‑1 and COX‑2 to manage pain and inflammation. Because COX inhibition is the primary mechanism, pain relief, the reduction of nociceptive signals, and inflammation, the body’s inflammatory response, are direct outcomes of taking the medication. The drug is available in capsule and oral suspension forms, with common adult doses ranging from 250 mg to 500 mg taken two to three times daily, not exceeding 1 g per day. Its absorption is rapid, reaching peak plasma levels within an hour, and it is metabolized in the liver before being excreted by the kidneys. Understanding these pharmacokinetic traits helps health‑care providers tailor dosing for individual needs while minimizing risk.

Key Benefits, Risks, and Practical Applications

One of the most frequent reasons patients reach for mefenamic acid is to ease menstrual cramps, medically called dysmenorrhea. By dampening prostaglandin‑driven uterine contractions, the drug offers relief that many over‑the‑counter options cannot match. It also finds use in treating mild‑to‑moderate arthritis pain, dental pain after extractions, and post‑surgical discomfort where a stronger anti‑inflammatory effect is desired. Compared with ibuprofen or naproxen, mefenamic acid tends to have a slightly higher risk of gastrointestinal irritation, so co‑prescribing a proton‑pump inhibitor may be advisable for long‑term users. Common side effects include stomach upset, headache, and dizziness; serious adverse events such as ulceration or bleeding require immediate medical attention. The medication should be avoided in patients with active peptic ulcers, severe heart failure, or known hypersensitivity to NSAIDs. Drug‑interaction alerts focus on anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), other NSAIDs, and certain antihypertensives, all of which can amplify bleeding risk or reduce therapeutic effectiveness. When considering alternatives, clinicians often compare mefenamic acid’s COX‑selectivity, half‑life, and dosing convenience against agents like celecoxib, which offers a more gastrointestinal‑friendly profile but at a higher cost. By weighing these factors, patients and providers can decide whether mefenamic acid fits their treatment plan best.

Below you’ll discover a curated collection of articles that break down dosing guidelines, safety tips, and head‑to‑head comparisons with other pain‑relief options. Whether you’re looking for quick facts on managing menstrual cramps or a deeper dive into the drug’s pharmacology, the posts that follow will give you practical, easy‑to‑follow guidance.