Mefenamic acid or mefenamic acid is a drug that serves to relieve pain, such as toothache, headache, and menstrual pain. Mefenamic acid is available in the form of 250 mg tablets, 500 mg tablets, and syrups.
Asmef or mefenamic acid works by inhibiting enzymes that produce prostaglandins, which are compounds that cause pain and inflammation. In dealing with pain, Asmef should be used according to the doctor's advice and for no more than seven days.
The use of drugs that are not in accordance with the recommendations can cause side effects, some of which include stomach ulcers, nausea, and diarrhea.
Trademark: Mefinal, Anastan, Opistan, Lapistan, Omestan, Asmef, Trifastan, Ponstan, Novastan, Mefinter.
What's that Mefenamic acid?
| group | Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs |
| Category | Prescription drugs |
| Benefit | Relieves pain and inflammation |
| Consumed by | Adults and children 14 years and over |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding category | Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Category D (in the 3rd trimester and before delivery): There is positive evidence of risks to the human fetus, but the benefits may outweigh the risks, for example in dealing with life-threatening situations. Mefenamic acid is absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without telling your doctor first. |
| Shape | Tablets, capsules, syrup |
Warnings Before Taking Mefenamic Acid:
- Immediately stop using the drug and see a doctor if you experience serious side effects, such as shortness of breath, bloody stools, or vomiting blood.
- Consult your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal disorders, asthma, blood disorders, liver disorders, kidney problems, heart disease, nasal polyps, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy, lupus, porphyria, stroke, and have ever had heart surgery.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, either prescription or over-the-counter medicines, as well as supplements and herbal medicines.
- This medicine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and visual disturbances. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking this medicine.
- In case of an allergic reaction to the drug or an overdose, see a doctor immediately.
Mefenamic Acid Dosage and Usage
Mefenamic acid dosage is divided according to age and the condition being treated. Here is the dosage distribution:
Goal: relieve pain
- Mature: 500 mg for the first dose, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours for 7 days.
- Children 14 years and over: The dose is determined by the doctor.
Goal: relieve menstrual pain
- Mature: 500 mg for the first dose, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours for 2 to 3 days.
- Children 14 years and over: The dose is determined by the doctor.
The dose of the above drug may change, depending on the patient's condition, the severity of the pain, and the body's response to the drug.
How to Consume Mefenamic acid correctly
Use mefenamic acid as recommended by your doctor and don't forget to read the description on the packaging before consuming it. It is advisable to take the drug after or during meals to prevent side effects.
This drug is generally only given for short-term consumption. Patients are advised to check with their doctor regularly, especially if they require long-term consumption of mefenamic acid.
Store mefenamic acid in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight. In addition, keep it out of reach of children. Do not store medicine if it has expired.
Mefenamic Acid Interaction with Other Drugs
If taken at the same time as other medicines, mefenamic acid can cause dangerous reactions or reduce the effects of these drugs. The following are drugs that should be avoided while using mefenamic acid:
- Medications for high blood pressure, such as ACE inhibitors, class drugs angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, and beta blockers.
- Lithium medication is commonly used to treat bipolar disorder.
- Antirheumatic drugs, such as methotrexate.
- Antacids containing magnesium hydroxide.
- warfarin blood thinner
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) antidepressants.
- Digoxin, to treat heart failure.
Side Effects and Dangers Mefenamic acid
If not used according to the rules, mefenamic acid has the potential to cause the following side effects:
- Loss of appetite
- Ulcer
- nausea and vomiting
- Gastric pains
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Rash on the skin
- Headache
- Tired and sleepy
- Tinnitus