Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine.
Mefenamic Acid
Generic Name: MEFENAMIC ACID
DESCRIPTION Mefenamic acid is a member of the fenamate group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Mefenamic Acid Used For?
- Mild to moderate pain in patients ≥14 years of age
- Primary dysmenorrhea
How Does It Work?
The mechanism of action of mefenamic acid, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2).
Dosage & Administration
- After observing the response to initial therapy with mefenamic acid, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient's needs.
- For the relief of acute pain in adults and adolescents ≥14 years of age, the recommended dose is 500 mg as an initial dose followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed, usually not to exceed one week.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- WARNINGS Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events Clinical trials of several COX-2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, which can be fatal.
- Based on available data, it is unclear that the risk for CV thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs.
- The relative increase in serious CV thrombotic events over baseline conferred by NSAID use appears to be similar in those with and without known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease.
- However, patients with known CV disease or risk factors had a higher absolute incidence of excess serious CV thrombotic events, due to their increased baseline rate.
- Some observational studies found that this increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events began as early as the first weeks of treatment.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
Drug Interactions
Mefenamic Acid may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a general physician on Zospital
Consult a general physician on Zospital before starting Mefenamic Acid. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Analgesics & Pain Relief Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Mefenamic Acid – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Mefenamic Acid, its uses, dosage and safety.
Mefenamic Acid is commonly prescribed in India for: Mild to moderate pain in patients ≥14 years of age, Primary dysmenorrhea. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Mefenamic Acid is sold in India under brand names such as Meftal, Ponstan, Meftal-P, Meftal Spas, Ponstel, Mefenamic Acid. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Mefenamic Acid is generally available over the counter (OTC) at Indian pharmacies. Even so, it is safer to consult a doctor before starting any new medicine, especially if you have other ongoing conditions.
Common side effects of Mefenamic Acid can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Dry mouth. Less common but serious side effects can include: Serious, Death, Anaphylactic, Hepatotoxicity, Agranulocytosis. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
The mechanism of action of mefenamic acid, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2).
Mefenamic Acid can interact with: Clinical, Serotonin, Intervention, Aspirin, Gastrointestinal, Ulceration. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Mefenamic Acid.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Mefenamic Acid for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Even though Mefenamic Acid is OTC, it should not be self-prescribed during pregnancy. Discuss it with your gynaecologist or family physician first.
Prices in India typically range from ₹10 – ₹120 per strip of 10 tablets depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Mefenamic Acid's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
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