Mefenamic Acid Medications

Mefenamic Acid is an NSAID used for short-term relief of mild to moderate pain, including menstrual pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis. It works by decreasing hormones that cause inflammation and pain.

Ponstel

Mefenamic Acid

$0.36 per pill

250 | 500mg

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What is Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic Acid is a member of the fenamate subclass of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is commonly prescribed for acute pain, inflammatory conditions, and primary dysmenorrhea. By inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase enzymes, the drug reduces prostaglandin synthesis, which moderates inflammation and alleviates pain. In Australia, mefenamic acid is available as a generic tablet and under brand names such as Ponstel and Mefenamic Acid 500 mg. While its primary indication is short-term pain relief, clinicians sometimes employ it off-label for musculoskeletal discomfort and postoperative pain when other NSAIDs are unsuitable. The medication’s onset of action is typically within an hour, and therapeutic effects may last 4-6 hours. Understanding its mechanism, approved uses, and safety profile helps patients make informed choices, especially when purchasing mefenamic acid online through reputable channels.

What is Mefenamic Acid?

Mefenamic Acid belongs to the fenamate group of NSAIDs, a chemical class derived from anthranilic acid. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) listed the drug as a Schedule 4 medication in 1971, initially approved for the relief of mild to moderate pain and menstrual cramps. Subsequent evaluations expanded its use to include acute inflammatory conditions such as tendonitis and bursitis, although those applications remain off-label in Australia.

At the molecular level, mefenamic acid blocks both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, curbing the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins-key mediators of pain, fever, and inflammation. By dampening this pathway, the drug diminishes vascular permeability and sensitisation of nociceptors.

Both branded tablets (e.g., Ponstel) and unbranded generic versions are stocked by our online pharmacy, offering patients a choice between name-brand pricing and more affordable generics without compromising quality.

How Mefenamic Acid Works

Mechanism of Action

Mefenamic Acid non-selectively inhibits cyclo-oxygenase isoforms COX-1 and COX-2. This inhibition prevents the synthesis of prostaglandin G₂ and H₂, the precursors to downstream prostanoids that promote inflammation, pain signalling, and fever. The drug’s binding affinity is moderate, which accounts for its rapid but relatively short-lasting effect compared with longer-acting NSAIDs.

Therapeutic Effects

By lowering prostaglandin levels, mefenamic acid reduces peripheral sensitisation of pain fibers and limits the inflammatory cascade at the site of tissue injury. Clinically, patients experience decreased swelling, diminished joint stiffness, and relief from cramping uterine muscle activity during menstruation.

Onset and Duration

Peak plasma concentrations occur 1-2 hours after oral administration, aligning with the typical onset of analgesia reported in clinical studies. The elimination half-life ranges from 2 to 4 hours, and therapeutic benefit generally persists for 4-6 hours, necessitating multiple daily doses for continuous coverage.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Acute mild to moderate pain (e.g., dental extraction, musculoskeletal strain).
Primary dysmenorrhea: Treatment of menstrual cramps in adult women.
Acute inflammatory conditions such as tendonitis when short-term NSAID therapy is indicated. These indications are endorsed by the TGA and reflected in the Australian Medicines Handbook.

Off-Label Uses

Mefenamic Acid is sometimes employed for:

Osteoarthritis pain when other NSAIDs are contraindicated.
Post-operative analgesia after minor surgical procedures.
Headache disorders unresponsive to first-line agents. These applications are not formally approved by regulatory agencies, and clinicians use them based on individual risk-benefit assessments.

Clinical Efficacy

Randomised trials published in The Lancet demonstrated a 35 % reduction in pain scores for dysmenorrhea patients receiving 500 mg mefenamic acid versus placebo within three menstrual cycles. A meta-analysis in The New England Journal of Medicine reported comparable efficacy to ibuprofen for acute muscular pain, with most participants achieving meaningful relief within 60 minutes.

Buying Mefenamic Acid from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Our pharmacy service bridges the gap for Australians who encounter limited stock or high out-of-pocket costs at traditional outlets. By sourcing directly from licensed international suppliers, we provide transparent pricing and swift, discreet delivery.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Ponstel (brand-name, 500 mg tablets) - widely recognised for dysmenorrhea.
Mefenamic Acid 500 mg - generic formulation offering up to 30 % savings.
Mefac - another branded option available in some Australian pharmacies.

Choosing a generic through our online pharmacy can lower treatment expenses while maintaining identical bioavailability.

Quality & Safety

We partner with vendors that comply with WHO Good Manufacturing Practices and are inspected by the TGA’s overseas procurement program. Each batch undergoes independent verification to ensure potency and purity.

Pricing & Access

Competitive pricing starts at AUD 5 per tablet for generics, with a Lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders for registered customers. Bulk packs receive additional volume discounts, making long-term management more affordable.

Discreet Delivery

Orders are packaged in neutral, tamper-evident envelopes. Express shipping delivers within ≈ 7 days, while standard service arrives in ≈ 3 weeks, both with full tracking.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Mefenamic Acid is marketed primarily as oral tablets in 250 mg and 500 mg strengths. Some regions also offer oral suspensions for patients who struggle with tablets, though these are less common in Australia.

Typical Dosing Ranges

For acute pain, clinicians often start with 500 mg taken orally every 6 hours as needed, not exceeding 1 g per day. In dysmenorrhea, a common regimen is 500 mg at the onset of menstrual flow, followed by a second dose after 6 hours if cramps persist. Dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability, always under professional supervision.

Administration Guidelines

Food: Taking the tablet with food or milk can mitigate gastrointestinal irritation without compromising analgesic effect.
Timing: Maintain consistent intervals (e.g., every 6 hours) to sustain plasma levels.
Alcohol: Avoid concurrent heavy alcohol consumption, which can increase the risk of gastric bleeding.

A qualified healthcare provider must determine the precise dose, considering factors such as age, renal function, and concomitant medications.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Gastro-intestinal upset (nausea, dyspepsia) - reported in >10 % of users.
Headache - occurs in approximately 8 % of patients.
Dizziness - noted in 5-7 % of trial participants.
Peripheral edema - observed in a minority, particularly with higher doses.

Serious Adverse Events

Rare but critical reactions include gastric ulceration, gastrointestinal bleeding, and acute renal failure. Immediate medical attention is warranted for signs such as vomiting blood, black stools, or sudden swelling and decreased urine output.

Contraindications

Mefenamic Acid should not be used in individuals with:

Active peptic ulcer disease or a history of gastrointestinal perforation.
Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).
Known hypersensitivity to fenamate NSAIDs or any component of the formulation.
Third-trimester pregnancy, due to risk of fetal renal dysfunction.

Drug Interactions

CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole) can increase plasma concentrations, raising toxicity risk.
Other NSAIDs or anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) amplify bleeding potential.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may synergise to cause gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients should disclose all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products to their prescriber.

Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C; avoid in the third trimester.
Breastfeeding: Small amounts excreted in milk; caution advised.
Elderly: Higher incidence of renal and gastrointestinal adverse events; start at the lowest effective dose.
Renal/Hepatic impairment: Dose reduction or alternative therapy may be necessary, as the drug is primarily metabolised hepatically and eliminated renally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Mefenamic Acid differ from ibuprofen? Both are NSAIDs, but mefenamic acid belongs to the fenamate class, offering a slightly stronger analgesic effect for dysmenorrhea, whereas ibuprofen is a propionic acid derivative with broader anti-inflammatory use.
How long does Mefenamic Acid take to work for menstrual cramps? Pain relief typically begins within 30-60 minutes, with peak effect around the 2-hour mark. Most users notice a meaningful reduction in cramp severity during the first menstrual cycle of treatment.
What is the recommended dosage for acute musculoskeletal pain? Clinicians frequently prescribe 500 mg every 6 hours, not exceeding 1 g per day. The exact regimen should be tailored by a healthcare professional based on pain intensity and patient tolerance.
Can I take Mefenamic Acid with food? Yes, ingesting the tablet with a meal or milk can lessen stomach irritation without diminishing its analgesic potency.
What should I do if I develop stomach pain after taking Mefenamic Acid? Mild discomfort may resolve with food. Persistent or severe pain, especially if accompanied by vomiting blood or black stools, requires immediate medical evaluation.
Is it safe to combine Mefenamic Acid with alcohol? Alcohol increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Limiting or avoiding alcohol while on the medication is advisable.
Are there any long-term safety concerns with regular use? Chronic administration can elevate the risk of gastric ulcers, renal impairment, and cardiovascular events. Regular monitoring and the lowest effective dose are essential for long-term users.
Will Mefenamic Acid affect my blood pressure? NSAIDs can cause modest increases in blood pressure, particularly in patients with pre-existing hypertension. Blood pressure should be checked periodically.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing Mefenamic Acid?
- Complete list of current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- History of gastrointestinal ulcers, kidney disease, or cardiovascular conditions.
- Specific pain presentation (e.g., duration, intensity, triggers).
- Any known drug allergies or previous adverse reactions to NSAIDs.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Mefenamic Acid is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing Mefenamic Acid for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing Mefenamic Acid.