Mefenamic acid

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Mefenamic acid
Clinical data
Pregnancy
category
Routes of
administration
Oral
ATC code
Legal status
Legal status
  • ℞-only (U.S.)
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability90%
Protein binding90%
MetabolismHepatic (CYP2C9)
Elimination half-life2 hours
ExcretionRenal and fecal
Identifiers
CAS Number
PubChem CID
DrugBank
E number{{#property:P628}}
ECHA InfoCard{{#property:P2566}}Lua error in Module:EditAtWikidata at line 36: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value).
Chemical and physical data
FormulaC15H15NO2
Molar mass241.285 g/mol

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Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat pain, including menstrual pain. It is commercially available in the US as Ponstel® and internationally by Pfizer as Ponstan®. It is also prescribed as an antipyretic drug. It is typically prescribed for oral administration.

Mefenamic acid decreases inflammation (swelling) and uterine contractions by a still unknown mechanism. However it is thought to be related to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis.


Since hepatic metabolism plays a significant role in mefenamic acid elimination, patients with known liver deficiency may be prescribed lower doses. Kidney deficiency may also cause accumulation of the drug and its metabolites in the excretory system. Therefore patients suffering from renal conditions should not be prescribed mefenamic acid.

Side effects

Mefenamic acid is known to cause an upset stomach, therefore it is recommended to take prescribed doses together with food or milk. Instances of drowsiness may also occur. As such, it is recommended to avoid driving or consuming alcohol while taking this medication.

Other known mild side effects of mefenamic acid include headaches, nervousness and vomiting. Serious side effects may include diarrhoea, bloody vomit, blurred vision, skin rash, itching and swelling, sore throat and fever. It is advised to consult a doctor immediately if these symptoms appear while taking this medication.

Sources

de:Mefenaminsäure

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