Mefenamic Acid 500mg Tablets

Quantity	1 x 28 tablets, 2 x 28 tablets, 3 x 28 tablets

What is mefenamic acid?

Mefenamic Acid tablets are a specialised pain reliever designed to alleviate menstrual cramps and associated discomfort effectively. Each tablet contains mefenamic acid, an active ingredient classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Mefenamic acid works by reducing the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain, making it particularly effective for easing period pain. In addition to menstrual cramps, Mefenamic Acid can also be used to treat other types of mild to moderate pain, offering versatile relief when needed.

What is the active ingredient in mefenamic acid?

The active ingredient in each tablet is: Mefenamic acid 500mg.

What is mefenamic acid used for?

Mefenamic Acid tablets contain the active ingredient mefenamic acid, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). These tablets are effective in relieving:

Symptoms of inflammation, such as redness and swelling
Pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, muscular, or rheumatic conditions
Headaches, muscle aches, or toothaches
Pain following surgeries or injuries
Pain during childbirth
Painful or heavy menstrual periods.

How does mefenamic acid work?

Period pains occur due to the shedding of the uterine lining (endometrium) that takes place roughly every month when a woman does not become pregnant. This shedding process involves the uterus contracting, which leads to cramps and pain in the lower abdomen. These contractions are triggered by the production of chemicals called prostaglandins. The pain can also radiate to the back and legs. Additionally, many women experience other types of discomfort, such as headaches, during their periods. Fortunately, this medication can help alleviate these unpleasant sensations.

Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by blocking the production of prostaglandins. By doing so, it reduces uterine contractions, alleviating period pain and also decreasing the amount of blood loss during menstruation.

How do you take mefenamic acid?

Always take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Take the tablets with or immediately after a meal.
Do NOT consume alcohol while taking Mefenamic Acid, as alcohol and smoking can irritate the stomach and worsen some side effects.

Dosage:

Adults: The usual recommended dose is one tablet three times a day.

Elderly patients (over 65 years): Elderly patients are at a higher risk of side effects and should take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time, with regular monitoring by their doctor.

Use in children: For children under 12 years of age, it is recommended to use Mefenamic Acid Suspension (50mg/5ml).

If you take more Mefenamic Acid than prescribed: Taking too many tablets can harm your stomach, kidneys, and may cause seizures (fits). Symptoms of overdose may include headache, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (rarely), disorientation, excitement, coma, tiredness, ringing in the ears, and fainting.

Contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
Bring the medication container and any remaining tablets to show what you have taken.
Even if you feel well, seek medical attention immediately.

If you forget to take a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you have any further questions about using this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Who should not take mefenamic acid?

Do not take mefenamic Acid if:

You are allergic to mefenamic acid, any other anti-inflammatory medicines (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, celecoxib), or any of the other ingredients in this medicine, please refer to the patient information leaflet.
You have, or have ever had, stomach or intestinal conditions such as peptic ulcer, bleeding in the stomach, or severe gastritis.
You have an inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease).
You have severe heart, liver, or kidney problems.
You have recently had heart bypass surgery.
You are more than 6 months pregnant.

If any of the above apply to you, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Warnings and Precautions:

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Mefenamic Acid if:

You are taking any other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac).
You are taking any other anti-inflammatory medicines, including steroids (e.g., prednisolone).
You are taking aspirin or medicines that thin the blood (e.g., warfarin, clopidogrel).
You are taking antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (e.g., paroxetine).
You have kidney or liver problems—your doctor may check your kidney or liver function before and during treatment.
You are elderly, as you may be at a higher risk of side effects.
You are trying to become pregnant.
You have stomach or digestive tract problems, or if you have ever had an upset stomach after taking painkillers such as aspirin—Mefenamic Acid may increase the risk of bleeding in the stomach or gut.
You have a bleeding disorder or are planning to have a major operation—Mefenamic Acid can affect blood clotting and prolong bleeding time.
You have asthma, or a history of asthma, as this medicine may cause breathing difficulties.
You have a connective tissue disorder, such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
You have epilepsy.
You are dehydrated (symptoms include thirst, dry skin, dark urine, dry mouth, headache).
You have heart problems, have had a previous stroke, or think you may be at risk for these conditions (e.g., if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a smoker)—additional monitoring may be required.

Medicines such as Mefenamic Acid may be associated with a small increased risk of heart attack or stroke. This risk is more likely with high doses and prolonged treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Blood Tests: Your doctor may test your blood during treatment.

Mefenamic Acid with alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol, as it may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

Pregnancy, Breast-feeding, and Fertility:

Pregnancy: Mefenamic Acid can pass to your unborn baby. It should not be taken during the first 6 months of pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and advised by your doctor. If needed during this period, the lowest dose for the shortest time possible should be used. From 20 weeks of pregnancy onward, Mefenamic Acid can cause kidney problems in your unborn baby, leading to low levels of amniotic fluid or narrowing of a blood vessel in the heart. Do not take Mefenamic Acid in the last 3 months of pregnancy, as it may harm your unborn child and cause complications during delivery.
Breast-feeding: Mefenamic Acid passes into breast milk and can affect the baby. Do not take this medication while breastfeeding unless advised by your doctor.
Fertility: Do not take Mefenamic Acid if you are trying to become pregnant, as it may make it more difficult to conceive. Inform your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant or have trouble conceiving.

Driving and using machines: Mefenamic Acid may cause drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, or affect your vision. If any of these symptoms occur, do not drive, use machinery, or perform any tasks that require you to be alert.

Mefenamic Acid Tablets contain:

Lactose: If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicine.
Sunset yellow: This may cause allergic reactions.
Sodium: This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per tablet, meaning it is essentially 'sodium-free'.

What are the side effects with mefenamic acid?

Like all medications, this one can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Don't be alarmed by the list of possible side effects—you may not encounter any of them.

STOP taking the tablets and seek medical help immediately if you experience any of the following allergic reactions:

Difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Severe itching of the skin, accompanied by a red rash or raised lumps.
Blistering of the mouth, eyes, genital region, and patchy areas of rash, peeling skin.

Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:

Diarrhea or passing blood in your stools.
Passing black, tarry stools.
Vomiting blood or dark particles that resemble coffee grounds.
Indigestion, heartburn, abdominal pain, or other abnormal stomach symptoms, nausea, or vomiting.
Any unusual bruising or bleeding, such as nosebleeds, pinpoint red spots on the skin, or unusual purple bruise-like rash on the skin or in the mouth.
Signs of anemia, such as feeling tired, breathless, and looking pale.
Fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, repeated infections, or infections that do not go away, possibly due to low white blood cell levels.
Seizures (fits).
Signs of low sodium levels, including headache, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, and muscle cramps.
Sudden headache, stiff neck, fever, sensitivity to bright light, drowsiness, and muscle pain, with or without a rash.
Fever, rash, nausea, aches and pains, changes in urine output, red urine, or passing urine at night—this may indicate kidney problems.
Sudden loss or blurring of vision, loss of color vision, or eye pain that worsens with movement.
Headache, especially in the morning, which may indicate high blood pressure.
Pain behind the ribs radiating towards the back, often worse when lying down, along with nausea, vomiting, and fever—this may suggest inflammation of the pancreas.
Yellowing of the skin or eyes, pale stools, dark urine, persistent nausea, stomach problems, loss of appetite, or unusual tiredness—these could be signs of liver problems.
Elevated liver function tests or multi-organ failure.
Symptoms of heart failure.

Other side effects that have been reported include:

Dizziness (vertigo).
Fatty stools.
Sweating.
Rapid heartbeat (palpitations).
Mental confusion.
Loss of appetite.
Constipation or bloating.
Blurred vision or eye irritation.
General malaise.
Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus).
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.
Sudden poor blood sugar control if you have diabetes.
Worsening of asthma.
Swelling of the hands and feet (around the ankles).
Sore mouth, including pain or ulcers on the tongue, cheeks, lips, throat, or gums.
Dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue.
Signs of low blood pressure, such as light-headedness.
Sensitivity to the sun—your skin may become red, painful, and swollen.
Depression, insomnia, hallucinations, nervousness.
Ear pain.
Worsening of colitis or Crohn’s disease.

Medicines like Mefenamic Acid may be associated with a small increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Urine tests: Inform your doctor if you are undergoing urine tests, as this medicine may affect the results.

Reporting of side effects: If you experience any side effects, speak with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or by searching for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. Reporting side effects can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Does mefenamic acid interact with other medicines?

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are currently taking, have recently taken, or may take any other medications. Mefenamic Acid can interact with other medicines, which might either influence its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Here are some types of medications you should mention to your healthcare provider:

Medicines that increase the risk of ulcers or bleeding in the stomach or intestines:
- Corticosteroids: Used to treat arthritis and inflammation.
- Blood-thinning medicines: Such as anti-platelet agents (e.g., warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel).
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Antidepressants like paroxetine.
Other anti-inflammatory medicines: Such as diclofenac, celecoxib.
Aspirin: Including low-dose aspirin used to prevent blood clotting in heart conditions.
Medicines for high blood pressure: Such as atenolol, ramipril, valsartan.
Diuretics (water tablets) or heart medicines: Such as digoxin, sotalol, diltiazem.
Diabetic medicines: Such as glipizide, glibenclamide.
Medicines that suppress the immune system: Such as ciclosporin, tacrolimus, methotrexate.
Lithium: A medication used to treat mood swings and certain types of depression.
Mifepristone: A medicine usually prescribed in hospitals, particularly if taken within the last 12 days.
Quinolone antibiotics: Used to treat infections.
Aminoglycoside antibiotics: Typically used under medical supervision in hospitals.
Zidovudine: A medicine used for HIV.
Probenecid: Used in specific cases to protect the kidneys.
Medicines that bind to protein in the blood: It’s advisable to check with your pharmacist regarding this.

Make sure to discuss all your current medications with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure Mefenamic Acid is safe and effective for you.

Frequently asked questions

What is Mefenamic Acid?

Mefenamic Acid tablets are a pain relief medication specifically designed to alleviate menstrual cramps and associated discomfort. Each tablet contains mefenamic acid, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce inflammation and pain.

How does Mefenamic Acid work?

Mefenamic Acid works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that cause the uterus to contract during menstruation. These contractions lead to the pain and cramps often experienced during periods. By blocking prostaglandins, Mefenamic Acid reduces these contractions, easing the pain and also reducing the amount of blood lost during your period.

How quickly does Mefenamic Acid work?

Mefenamic Acid typically begins to take effect within 30 to 60 minutes. By taking the recommended dose three times daily before and during your period, you can maintain consistent relief throughout the day. For particularly severe pain, you can combine Mefenamic Acid with paracetamol and use heat pads on your abdomen and lower back.

Are there alternatives to Mefenamic Acid?

Yes, there are several alternatives for period pain relief. Options include:

Tranexamic Acid: Another NSAID that primarily reduces bleeding but also helps with pain.
Naproxen: A powerful anti-inflammatory option.
Paracetamol: Can be taken alongside Mefenamic Acid for additional pain relief.

Can I take Mefenamic Acid with other medications for my period?

Mefenamic Acid can be safely taken with paracetamol. However, you should avoid taking it with other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen. It is also safe to take Mefenamic Acid with the contraceptive pill, which many women use to reduce period pain.

What is the recommended dosage of Mefenamic Acid?

The standard dosage is one 500mg tablet taken three times daily with or after food during your period.

What are the ingredients in Mefenamic Acid tablets?

Each tablet contains 500mg of the active ingredient, Mefenamic Acid. Inactive ingredients include Lactose Monohydrate, Pregelatinized Starch, Croscarmellose Sodium, Povidone, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Colloidal Silicon Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate, and coating materials like Hypromellose, Titanium Dioxide, and Iron Oxide Yellow.

What are the side effects of Mefenamic Acid?

Common side effects include:

Stomach pain
Nausea
Diarrhea or constipation
Dizziness or drowsiness
Headaches
Heartburn

In rare cases, serious side effects may occur, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, severe allergic reactions, kidney problems, or liver issues. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like vomiting blood, black stools, or severe abdominal pain.

What precautions should I take before using Mefenamic Acid?

Do not take Mefenamic Acid if you have:

A history of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding
Allergies to NSAIDs or aspirin
Severe kidney, heart, or liver issues
Are pregnant or breastfeeding

Speak with your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, bowel disorders, a history of heart issues, or if you are taking other medications that might interact with Mefenamic Acid.

Can I take Mefenamic Acid with other medications?

You should avoid taking Mefenamic Acid if you are using other NSAIDs, anticoagulants like warfarin, certain blood pressure medications, SSRIs, corticosteroids, or methotrexate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure about any potential interactions.

Looking for weight loss, ED or hair loss treatment without needles or tablets?

What is Mefenamic Acid?

How does Mefenamic Acid work?

How quickly does Mefenamic Acid work?

Are there alternatives to Mefenamic Acid?

Can I take Mefenamic Acid with other medications for my period?

What is the recommended dosage of Mefenamic Acid?

What are the ingredients in Mefenamic Acid tablets?

What are the side effects of Mefenamic Acid?

What precautions should I take before using Mefenamic Acid?

Can I take Mefenamic Acid with other medications?

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Looking for weight loss, ED or hair loss treatment without needles or tablets?

What is mefenamic acid?

What is the active ingredient in mefenamic acid?

What is mefenamic acid used for?

How does mefenamic acid work?

How do you take mefenamic acid?

Who should not take mefenamic acid?

What are the side effects with mefenamic acid?

Does mefenamic acid interact with other medicines?

Frequently asked questions

What is Mefenamic Acid?

How does Mefenamic Acid work?

How quickly does Mefenamic Acid work?

Are there alternatives to Mefenamic Acid?

Can I take Mefenamic Acid with other medications for my period?

What is the recommended dosage of Mefenamic Acid?

What are the ingredients in Mefenamic Acid tablets?

What are the side effects of Mefenamic Acid?

What precautions should I take before using Mefenamic Acid?

Can I take Mefenamic Acid with other medications?

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