Mefenamic Acid 500mg Tablets

What is Mefenamic Acid?

Mefenamic Acid is a member of the anthranilic acid derivatives class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is used to treat period pain caused by heavy periods and painful menstrual cycles.

It is sometimes sold under the brand name Ponstan. Mefenamic Acid can be taken by adults and children over the age of 12.

You must have a prescription to buy Mefenamic Acid.

What is Mefenamic Acid used to treat?

This medication is primarily used to treat mild to moderate period pain. For effective pain relief from this problem, you should start taking it on the first day of your period and keep taking it until your pain is manageable, which is usually for four days.

You can take Mefenamic Acid up to three times a day, meaning you can go through the whole day pain-free.

As well as period pain, this medication can also be used to relieve the pain associated with conditions such as:

• Dental pain
• Arthritic pain
• Pain and swelling
• Muscle and joint pain
• Post-surgery pain

Why is Mefenamic Acid recommended to treat period pain?

Mefenamic Acid has been clinically tested and shown to be an effective treatment for the symptoms of period pain.

Furthermore, each dose will help to alleviate pain for up to 8 hours at a time, providing long-lasting relief. 

How does Mefenamic Acid work?

Mefenamic Acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by inhibiting the production of pain-triggering hormones called prostaglandins, which are released when you have been injured.

Period pain is caused by the muscle walls of the womb contracting more intensely than usual, cutting off the blood and oxygen supply to the womb, which makes the tissues in the womb release prostaglandins. By stopping prostaglandins from being released, your pain will be lessened significantly.

Who can take Mefenamic Acid?

Mefenamic Acid is not suitable for certain people to take.

This medication is not suitable for anyone under the age of 12 years old.

Speak to your doctor before taking Mefenamic Acid if you suffer from any of these conditions:

• You are using treatments for asthma
• You have epilepsy
• You have high blood pressure (hypertension)
• You have high cholesterol
• You have high blood sugar levels
• You have any connective tissue disorders
• You have kidney problems
• You have liver problems
• You have or have ever had a stomach or duodenal ulcer
• You have Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or any inflammatory bowel disorders
• You have porphyria
• You are currently taking any other medications
• You have had an allergic reaction to any other medicine in the past

This list is not exhaustive. Always read the patient information leaflet for full details on why Mefenamic Acid may not be suitable for you to take.

Can you buy Mefenamic Acid 500mg tablets over the counter?

Mefenamic Acid is only available on prescription, you cannot buy it over the counter.

Can you buy Mefenamic Acid online in the UK?

You can buy Mefenamic Acid online from regulated pharmacies like Medicine Direct. However, as this is a prescription-only medicine (POM), you must first complete a confidential online questionnaire to make sure it is suitable for you. One of our registered doctors, pharmacists or prescribers will review the answers you provide to assess whether Mefenamic Acid is safe for you to take.

Mefenamic Acid alternatives

Ponstan is a branded version of Mefenamic Acid and works in the same way to relieve pain and inflammation. You can also buy this medication from Medicine Direct after completing an online consultation.

We also stock over the counter painkillers like Ibuprofen or Naproxen, which can be taken to relieve pain from periods and other conditions.

How to take Mefenamic Acid

Take Mefenamic Acid in the dose your doctor has prescribed for you. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication for a complete list of instructions.

The normal dose is to take one tablet three times a day. Do not take more than three tablets in 24 hours as this can increase the risk of seizures.

Swallow Mefenamic Acid tablets whole with a drink of water.

Children under the age of 12 must not take this medicine.

Do not smoke or drink alcohol while taking Mefenamic Acid. This can increase the risk of side effects.

Mefenamic acid dose

Our pharmacists and prescribers follow NICE guidelines when prescribing Mefenamic Acid.

Mefenamic Acid Side Effects

As is the case with all medications, taking Mefenamic Acid comes with the risk of side effects, although not everyone will suffer from them.

Common side effects of Mefenamic Acid are:

• Mouth ulcers
• Indigestion
• Heartburn
• Feeling sick
• Being sick
• Wind
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rash

This list is not exhaustive. Always read the patient information leaflet thoroughly before you start your treatment, for a full list of adverse effects.

Mefenamic Acid Warnings and Drug Interactions

Always inform your doctor of any other medicines you are currently taking. This includes both prescription and non-prescription medications, herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements.

Certain drugs may interact with mefenamic acid and hinder its effectiveness and/or increase your risk of side effects.

Be certain to tell your doctor if you are currently taking:

• Medicines for high blood pressure
• Any other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and Naproxen
• Any ACE inhibitors
• Any diuretics (water pills)

Read the patient information leaflet for comprehensive warnings. 

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Mefenamic Acid is not recommended during pregnancy. Make sure your doctor is aware if you are currently pregnant, are trying to get pregnant, or think you might be pregnant.

Similarly, ensure you tell your doctor if you are currently breastfeeding. Small amounts of Mefenamic Acid may get into your breast milk and may be passed on to your baby.

Mefenamic Acid Ingredients

The main active ingredient within this medicine is: Mefenamic Acid

For a full list of the inactive ingredients, please read the Summary of Product Characteristics.

How much does it cost to buy Mefenamic Acid online in the UK?