Mefenamic acid is a drug that is often used to treat pain and fever. However, the use of mefenamic acid for pregnant women should not be arbitrary
Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that works to relieve pain and inflammation. Mefenamic acid works by lowering levels of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause inflammation and pain in the body.
Although it has been shown to be effective in relieving pain and fever, you should not take mefenamic acid while pregnant, unless advised by your doctor.
The Risks of Using Mefenamic Acid for Pregnant Women
Mefenamic acid falls into category C. This means that studies that have been carried out on experimental animals have shown side effects to the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women. Thus, this drug should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.
Mefenamic acid is dangerous if used during the third trimester of pregnancy. This is because mefenamic acid can cause blood vessels in the placenta to close more quickly. In fact, these blood vessels play a role in distributing nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. If this happens, it can trigger premature labor.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including mefenamic acid, are also thought to interfere with female fertility. Therefore, women who are planning a pregnancy are not recommended to take this drug.
Mefenamic Acid Substitute Options for Pregnant Women
Paracetamol can be an alternative medicine for mefenamic acid to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever. This drug is relatively safe for consumption at all ages of pregnancy.
Even so, paracetamol should be taken in the short term with the smallest possible dose. In addition, paracetamol drugs that may be consumed are pure paracetamol, not paracetamol that has been mixed with caffeine. A mixture of paracetamol and caffeine can harm the fetus.
If taken in high doses, this mixture of drugs can cause the fetus to have low body weight, experience health problems after birth, and can trigger miscarriage.
Choosing paracetamol is safer than taking mefenamic acid for pregnant women. However, if you complain of pain or fever during pregnancy, you should first consult your doctor before taking any medication.