Mefenamic acid

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Mefenamic acid chemical structure
Mefenamic acid
Systematic (IUPAC) name
2-(2,3-dimethylphenyl)aminobenzoic acid
Identifiers
CAS number 61-68-7
ATC code M01AG01
PubChem 4044
DrugBank APRD0073
Chemical data
Formula C15H15NO2 
Mol. weight 241.285 g/mol
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability 90%
Protein binding 90%
Metabolism Hepatic (CYP2C9)
Half life 2 hours
Excretion Renal and fecal
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat.

C (Au, U.S.)

Legal status

℞-only (U.S.)

Routes Oral

Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat pain, including menstrual pain. It is commercially available as Ponstel®. 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.

[edit] 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 diarrhea, 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.

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[edit] External link


Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (primarily M01A and M02A, also N02BA) edit

Salicylates: Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid), Diflunisal, Ethenzamide -- Arylalkanoic acids: Diclofenac, Indometacin, Sulindac

2-Arylpropionic acids (profens): Carprofen, Flurbiprofen, Ibuprofen, Ketoprofen, Ketorolac, Loxoprofen, Naproxen, Tiaprofenic acid,

N-Arylanthranilic acids (fenamic acids): Mefenamic acid -- Pyrazolidine derivatives: Phenylbutazone

Oxicams: Meloxicam, Piroxicam -- Coxibs: Celecoxib, Etoricoxib, Parecoxib, Rofecoxib, Valdecoxib -- Sulphonanilides: Nimesulide

Topically used products: Diclofenac, Flurbiprofen, Ibuprofen, Indometacin, Ketoprofen, Naproxen, Piroxicam