International reference: 1 US FDA recall for this ingredient
Failed Dissolution Specifications: Low dissolution results were obtained during stability testing (mefanamic)
US-market enforcement records (OpenFDA), shown for reference - not specific to this product in Tanzania.
What it does
Mefanamic acid is a pain reliever that helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Commonly used for: menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), mild to moderate pain, inflammation
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority · fetched 2026-03-11 23:44:36 · updated 2026-10-19 03:00:45
About this medicine
Mefanamic acid is a pain reliever that helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
What it treats
- menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
- mild to moderate pain
- inflammation
How it works
It works by blocking substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.
Who it's for
It's for adults and children over the age of 12 who need relief from pain.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: mefanamic
Mefanamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used primarily for the treatment of mild to moderate pain and for the relief of dysmenorrhea. It exhibits analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties, making it useful in various clinical settings. Mefanamic acid is often used when other NSAIDs are not suitable or when patients are specifically seeking a medication with its profile.
Indications
- Mild to moderate pain
- Dysmenorrhea
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing guidelines.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidelines.
Mechanism of action
Mefanamic acid works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is responsible for the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. By blocking COX enzymes, mefanamic acid reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins, thereby decreasing inflammation, pain, and fever. It primarily inhibits COX-1 and COX-2, which leads to a reduction in the inflammatory response in tissues.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of mefanamic acid include its ability to decrease pain perception and reduce inflammation. It achieves this through the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which plays a crucial role in mediating pain and inflammatory processes. Mefanamic acid is particularly effective in alleviating menstrual pain due to its pronounced effect on prostaglandin levels related to uterine contractions.
Pharmacokinetics
Mefanamic acid is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within 2 to 4 hours after oral administration. It has a bioavailability of approximately 90%. The drug is extensively metabolized in the liver, with a half-life ranging from 2 to 4 hours. It is primarily excreted in the urine as metabolites, with less than 1% of the dose being excreted unchanged. The pharmacokinetics can be influenced by factors such as age, liver function, and concurrent medications.
Contra-indications
- Active peptic ulceration
- History of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe renal impairment
- Hypersensitivity to mefanamic acid or any of its components
- Pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Rash or allergic reactions
- Increased risk of cardiovascular events with long-term use
- Hepatic dysfunction
Interactions
- May enhance the effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin
- May reduce the effect of antihypertensive drugs
- Concurrent use with other NSAIDs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects
- Caution with renal excretion drugs due to potential renal impairment
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of asthma or allergic reactions
- Monitor renal function in long-term therapy
- Evaluate cardiovascular risk factors before initiation
- Avoid use in dehydration or hypovolemia
Pregnancy
Mefanamic acid is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester due to potential effects on the fetal cardiovascular system and possible increase in bleeding risk during delivery.
Breast-feeding
Mefenamic acid is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administered to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.