Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic Acid is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug with antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. The analgesic effect is strong and the antipyretic effect is long-lasting, but the anti-inflammatory effect is not as good as that of Baotaisong and flufenamic acid.

1. Introduction

Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the fenamate class. It is primarily used for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties.

2. Mechanism of Action

– Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis.

– Modulates pain and inflammation by blocking prostaglandin-mediated effects.

3. Therapeutic Uses

– Pain Relief: Effective for mild to moderate pain (e.g., headaches, dental pain, dysmenorrhea).

– Inflammatory Conditions: Used in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (though less common than other NSAIDs).

– Menstrual Pain (Primary Dysmenorrhea):** One of its key indications due to strong prostaglandin inhibition.

4. Pharmacokinetics

– Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration (~50% bioavailability).

– Metabolism: Hepatic metabolism via CYP2C9.

– Excretion:Primarily renal (urine), with a half-life of **2–4 hours**.

5. Adverse Effects

– Common: GI disturbances (nausea, diarrhea, dyspepsia), dizziness, headache.

– Serious:

– GI ulcers/bleeding (higher risk than some NSAIDs).

– Renal impairment (especially in dehydrated or elderly patients).

– Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, Stevens-Johnson syndrome).

– Hepatotoxicity (rare but reported).

6. Drug Interactions

– Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): ↑ Bleeding risk.

– Diuretics/ACE inhibitors:Reduced efficacy due to fluid retention.

– Other NSAIDs/aspirin: ↑ GI toxicity.

7. Contraindications & Precautions

– Contraindicated in:

– Peptic ulcer disease.

– Severe renal/hepatic impairment.

– Asthma/NSAID-induced hypersensitivity.

– Use with caution in:

– Elderly patients.

– Cardiovascular disease (may ↑ BP).

8. Special Considerations

– Short-term use preferred (due to higher GI toxicity risk).

– Avoid in pregnancy (3rd trimester)—risk of premature ductus arteriosus closure.

9. Conclusion

Mefenamic acid is effective for acute pain and dysmenorrhea but carries significant GI and renal risks. Should be used at the **lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.

Basic Physicochemical Properties

Pharmacological Profile

Therapeutic Applications & Dosage

Pharmacopoeial Compliance

Stability & Storage Conditions

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