Ponstel

mefenamic acid

Brand(s):

• Almefcen Mefgesic

Manufacturer:

• Alkem Laboratories Ltd (Cytomed) / Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Disease(s):

• Osteoarthritis / Rheumatoid Arthritis

Known as:

• Ponstel

Mefenamic Acid Tablets

What is Mefenamic Acid?

Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Common uses include managing osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, as well as alleviating the pain associated with menstrual periods. It's important to remember that mefenamic acid doesn't cure these conditions; it helps manage the symptoms.

Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

Before starting mefenamic acid, it's crucial to inform your doctor about your complete medical history. This includes:

• Smoking habits
• Alcohol consumption
• Heart disease or circulatory problems (e.g., heart failure, edema)
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Recent heart surgery
• History of stomach bleeding or ulcers
• Swelling in the ankles or hands
• Use of blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin)
• Use of steroid medications (e.g., prednisone, cortisone)
• Allergies to mefenamic acid, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding

This information helps your doctor determine if mefenamic acid is safe and appropriate for you and adjust the dosage if necessary.

How to Take Mefenamic Acid

Take mefenamic acid orally with a full glass of water. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Remain upright for at least 10 minutes after taking the medication. Follow the prescribed dosage and frequency carefully; do not exceed the recommended dose. Prolonged, continuous use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Children: Consult your pediatrician before giving mefenamic acid to children. While it may be prescribed for some conditions in adolescents (14 years and older), specific precautions apply.

Older Adults (65+): Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of mefenamic acid and might require a lower dose. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your individual needs.

Overdosage: In case of an overdose, immediately contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical attention.

Personal Use Only: This medication is for your personal use only; do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double the dose.

Potential Drug Interactions

Avoid taking mefenamic acid with the following medications:

• Cidofovir
• Ketorolac
• Methotrexate

Mefenamic acid may also interact with:

• Alcohol
• Alendronate
• Antacids containing magnesium
• Aspirin and aspirin-like medications
• Diuretics
• Herbal products containing feverfew, garlic, ginger, or ginkgo biloba
• Lithium
• Blood pressure medications
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Pemetrexed

This list might not be exhaustive. Provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all medications, herbs, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements you are using. Also, disclose your smoking, alcohol, and drug use habits as these can influence drug interactions.

Monitoring While Taking Mefenamic Acid

If your pain doesn't improve, consult your doctor. Avoid self-medicating for pain relief. Mefenamic acid does not prevent heart attacks or strokes; in fact, it may increase the risk, particularly with long-term use or in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Discuss this risk with your doctor, especially if you're taking aspirin for heart protection.

Avoid concurrent use of ibuprofen, naproxen, or other NSAIDs with mefenamic acid, as this increases the risk of stomach upset, nausea, and ulcers. Many over-the-counter medications should not be taken with mefenamic acid; check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Mefenamic acid can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers and bleeding at any time during treatment. Smoking and alcohol consumption exacerbate this risk. Ulcers and bleeding can occur without warning symptoms and can be life-threatening.

Possible Side Effects

Report to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, facial swelling)
• Black, tarry stools
• Blurred vision
• Breathing difficulties
• Chest pain
• Flu-like symptoms
• High blood pressure
• Right upper abdominal pain
• Skin reactions (redness, blistering, peeling)
• Slurred speech
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Sudden weight gain or swelling
• Changes in urination
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Extreme fatigue or weakness
• Blood in vomit
• Jaundice (yellowing of eyes or skin)

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but report if persistent or bothersome):

• Diarrhea or constipation
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Gas or heartburn
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sun sensitivity

This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects.

Storage Instructions

Keep mefenamic acid out of reach of children. Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F). Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.