Everything You Need to Know About Mefenamic Acid

When working with mefenamic acid, a non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (NSAID) that eases pain and inflammation. Also called Ponstel, it blocks cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, lowering prostaglandin production. mefenamic acid is part of the NSAIDs family, which share this COX‑inhibition mechanism. The drug is frequently chosen for menstrual cramps and arthritis because it provides fast relief. Various dosage forms—tablets, oral suspension, and sometimes injectable preparations—let clinicians match the treatment to patient age and condition.

The core attribute of mefenamic acid is its ability to inhibit both COX‑1 and COX‑2 enzymes. This dual inhibition reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins, the chemicals that trigger pain, fever, and swelling. In practical terms, the drug lowers the inflammatory response in joint tissues, eases uterine muscle contractions, and diminishes headache intensity. Studies show that a typical adult dose of 250 mg taken twice daily can cut menstrual pain scores by half within an hour. For arthritis patients, the same dosage range helps restore joint mobility without the sedative effects seen in some other pain relievers.

Safety Profile and How to Use It Wisely

Like all NSAIDs, mefenamic acid carries a gastrointestinal risk. It can irritate the stomach lining, especially when taken on an empty stomach or in high doses. To mitigate this, doctors often recommend taking the medication with food or a full glass of milk. Renal function is another key consideration; patients with reduced kidney performance should use the lowest effective dose or opt for an alternative NSAID. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and mild headache, while serious reactions—such as ulcer bleeding or severe allergic rash—require immediate medical attention.

Drug interactions are a major attribute to watch. Mefenamic acid can boost the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, raising bleeding risk. It also interferes with the action of certain antihypertensives, making blood pressure harder to control. Therefore, a thorough medication review is essential before starting therapy. For people using aspirin or other NSAIDs, a wash‑out period of 24–48 hours helps avoid additive toxicity.

When prescribing mefenamic acid for teenagers, clinicians pay special attention to weight‑based dosing. The pediatric dosage is usually 7 mg/kg per dose, not exceeding 250 mg per administration. For children who cannot swallow tablets, the oral suspension provides a flexible option, ensuring accurate dosing with a calibrated syringe. The suspension is also useful for elderly patients who may have swallowing difficulties or reduced gastric acidity, which can affect tablet dissolution.

Beyond pain relief, mefenamic acid is sometimes explored for off‑label uses such as reducing fever in postoperative patients or managing mild migraines. While the evidence is mixed, the drug’s rapid onset makes it a candidate when fast symptom control is needed. However, clinicians weigh the benefit against the gastrointestinal and renal cautions before extending its use beyond the primary indications.

Now that you have a clear picture of how mefenamic acid works, its key attributes, safety considerations, and where it fits among other NSAIDs, you’re ready to dive into the detailed articles below. Each post tackles specific scenarios—whether it’s managing menstrual pain, choosing the right dosage form, or navigating drug interactions—so you can apply the information directly to your health decisions.