Mefenamic Acid
Mefenamic Acid is a NSAID (non steroidal antinflammatory drug). Mefenamic Acid is prepared by chemical synthesis and chemically Mefenamic Acid is N-(2, 3-xylyl) anthranilic acid. Mefenamic Acid is used for its both antinflammatory and antipyretic properties. Mefenamic Acid is given by mouth to treat arthritis, headaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, dental pain.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Anthranilic Acid.
It belongs to Cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Agents .
Molecular Weight: 241.3 · pKa: 4.2 · Solubility in Water: practically insoluble · Solubility in Alcohol: Slightly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Mefenamic Acid.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Mefenamic Acid has an oral bioavailability is 92.5% (±2.5%).
Distribution: Mefenamic Acid has a volume of distribution is 1.3 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 90%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic (extensively), plasma half-life is 3-4 hr, renal excretion is 70%.
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Indications
Mefenamic Acid is primarily indicated in conditions like Dysmenorrhoea, Fever, fever, Inflammation, Juvenile chronic arthritis, Menorrhagia, Migraine, Musculoskeletal disorders, Osteoarthritis, Pain, Post-operative pain, Post-partum pain, Rheumatoid arthritis, Symptomatic relief of GI-disorders, Toothache, Traumatic pain.
Contraindications
Mefenamic Acid is contraindicated in conditions like Asthma, Peptic ulcer, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Mefenamic Acid's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 250 mg | 250 mg | Every 6h | PO | Maitanence dose. |
| 500 mg | 500 mg | Every 8h | PO | Initial dose. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 25 mg/kg | 25 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 8 mg/kg | 8 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | Not recommended under 3 month |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Mefenamic Acid in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Diarrhoea , Peripheral edema, Urticaria , Gi bleeding , GI bleeding, Proteinuria , Aplastic anemia , Aplastic anemia , Epidermal necrolysis , Jaundice , Jaundice , Nephrotic syndrome , Interstitial nephritis , Papillary necrosis , Hemolysis , Proctocolitis , Enteritis , Large bowel perforation , Epidermal necrolysis , Platelet dysfunction , Aplastic anemia, GI perforation, Proteinuria, proteinuria, Haemolytic anemia.
Mefenamic Acid produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Agranulocytosis, Thrombocytopenia , Pancytopenia , Leucopenia , Heart failure, Reversible autoimmune hemolysis, Bone marrow hypoplasia. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Mefenamic Acid are Grand Mal Seizures (epilepsy), Excitation , Depression , Incoordination .
Mefenamic Acid is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Anemia, Azotemia, Bullous rash, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Elevation of liver enzymes, Headache, Hematuria, Maculopapular rash, Skin rashes.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Mefenamic Acid may interfere in the diagnosis of False +ve test for the presence of Bile in Urine .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Multi-Ingredient Combinations
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.2.1.3 — Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Mefenamic Acid in Pakistan: