Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs). It is used to treat mild to moderate pain. It was discovered and brought to market by Parke-Davis as Ponstel in the 1960s. It became generic in the 1980s and is available worldwide under many brand names such as Meftal. It is taken via mouth or rectal. It affects various structures of the human body, including the kidneys.
Mechanism of action: The arachidonic acid cascade and NSAIDs biological target. The arachidonic acid undergoes a series of chemical reactions dependent on COX-1 or COX-2 or lipoxygenase. NSAIDs are inhibitors of the COX enzymes, blocking that pathway of the arachidonic acid cascade.
It was found that COX-2 is induced by hormones secreted by ovaries, uterine muscle, fetal membrane. It also regulates the ovulation cycle and implantation of a fertilized egg. In rare cases, NSAIDs, including Mefenamic may cause interstitial nephritis, papillary necrosis and the nephrotic syndrome. NSAIDs inhibit the synthesis of renal prostaglandin which plays a supportive role in the maintenance of renal perfusion in patients whose renal blood flow and blood volume are decreased. If someone is dehydrated and is taking this drug they can exhibit kidney dysfunction. Person who use diuretics, ACE inhibitors or ARBs can experience the ‘triple whammy’ effect.
Short term cyclic use is generally considered safe for the long term use.
the dose can be (2-5 days/months).
people can experience numbness in legs, easy bruising, blood in urine, back pain etc
What prevention can be taken to avoid the risk of the drugs ?
What are the safer pain relief alternatives to period pain?
A valuable reminder that even commonly used medications like mefenamic acid are not completely risk-free. Patient education, adequate hydration, avoiding self-medication, and appropriate monitoring are key to minimizing adverse effects while ensuring effective pain relief.
Mefenamic acid medicine commonly used for menstrual pain has its own risk and benefits. Women should be educated on the potential side effects and only to take it for severe pain. Other methods like warm compresses, lifestyle changes, and hydration can help in managing menstrual pain.
Natural and home made therapy for pain managemnt is always the best.
It is the tendency of the body to adapt to the pain that lasts for few hours. beyond that abdominal cramps, buttermilk and dark chocolates are a refresher.
i prefer natural remedies rather than taking medicines during period pain, because these medicines only give short term effect and once our body get used to it no other natural remedies can work and every other month we have to take these medicines which further can cause resistance to these medicines as well. We can take these medicines i severe conditions or while travelling but if we are home, give rest to our body natural remedies are good.
No NSAID is clearly safer or more effective than all others, though Ibuprofen and Naproxen are commonly recommended because they are well studied and widely used.
If you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney disease, NSAID allergy, uncontrolled hypertension, or are advised to avoid NSAIDs, Paracetamol is safer but generally less effective than NSAIDs for menstrual cramps.
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) – A good alternative if NSAIDs are not suitable
Non-drug alternatives
Applying a heating pad or hot water bottle** to the lower abdomen.
Light exercise such as walking, stretching, or yoga.
Staying well hydrated and getting enough sleep.
Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation.