Mefenamic Acid 500mg

Mefenamic Acid is a prescription-only non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) specifically used to treat mild to moderate pain. While it can be used for various musculoskeletal conditions, it is most widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating primary dysmenorrhea (painful periods) and menorrhagia (heavy periods).

It belongs to the "fenamate" group of NSAIDs and is a generic version of the medicine formerly known as Ponstan. Because it is a generic medicine, the manufacturer may vary, but the 500mg strength and clinical effect remain identical.

Period pain occurs when the uterus contracts to shed its lining. These contractions are triggered by chemicals called prostaglandins. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more severe cramping and heavier menstrual flow.

Mefenamic Acid works by:

1. Blocking Production: It inhibits the enzymes responsible for making prostaglandins.
2. Blocking Action: Unlike many other NSAIDs, Mefenamic Acid also binds to prostaglandin receptors, further blocking their effect on the uterine muscles.

By lowering prostaglandin activity, the medication reduces the intensity of uterine contractions, relieving pain in the lower abdomen, back, and legs.

Always follow the instructions provided by your prescriber and the patient information leaflet.

1. Take with food: To reduce the risk of stomach upset, always take the tablets with or immediately after a meal.
2. Swallow whole: Do not crush or chew the tablets.
3. Timing: For best results, start taking the tablets as soon as your period pain or bleeding begins.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water while taking this medication.

For Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea), take one 500mg tablet, three times daily.

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Allergic reactions (e.g., facial swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Vomiting blood or coffee-ground-like vomit
• Blood in stools or black stools

Do not take this medication if you:

• Are allergic to mefenamic acid, aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs.
• Have an active stomach ulcer or a history of recurrent ulcers/bleeding.
• Have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis).
• Have severe heart, liver, or kidney failure.
• Are in the last trimester of pregnancy or are breastfeeding.

Yes. One of the distinct benefits of Mefenamic Acid over standard over-the-counter painkillers is its ability to reduce blood loss during menstruation. By stabilizing the uterine environment and reducing inflammation in the lining, it can help manage heavy periods (menorrhagia) effectively.

Q: Can I take Mefenamic Acid with Paracetamol? Yes. It is safe to take Paracetamol alongside Mefenamic Acid as they work in different ways. However, you must not take it with other NSAIDs like Ibuprofen, Naproxen, or Aspirin.

Q: How quickly does it work? Mefenamic Acid typically begins to relieve pain within 30 to 60 minutes of taking a dose.

Q: Will it stop my period completely? No. Mefenamic Acid is not a contraceptive and will not stop your period. It is designed to reduce the intensity of pain and the volume of blood loss.

Q: Can I take this if I am on the contraceptive pill? Yes. There is no known interaction between Mefenamic Acid and the combined pill or the mini-pill. Many women find that using both together provides the best management for painful periods.