Dysmen
Generic Name
Mefenamic Acid 500 mg tablet
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
dysmen 500 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat mild to moderate pain, dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain), and menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding).
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose of 500 mg, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed. Not to exceed 7 days for pain or 2-3 days for dysmenorrhea.
Elderly
Start with lower doses and monitor for adverse effects, especially GI and renal complications.
Renal_impairment
Not recommended for severe renal impairment. Dose reduction or avoidance may be necessary in moderate impairment; careful monitoring required.
How to Take
For oral administration. Take with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Mefenamic acid works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which are involved in pain and inflammation pathways.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of analgesic action typically occurs within 1 hour.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in urine (about 50% as metabolites and unchanged drug) and feces (about 20% as metabolites).
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 2-4 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Peak plasma concentrations are usually achieved within 2-4 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP2C9 to 3-hydroxymethyl mefenamic acid and 3-carboxy mefenamic acid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin)
- Active peptic ulceration or gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Bronchospasm, rhinitis, or urticaria history following aspirin or other NSAIDs
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery (peri-operative pain)
Drug Interactions
SSRIs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Lithium
Increased plasma lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
Methotrexate
Increased methotrexate toxicity.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
ACE inhibitors/ARBs
Increased risk of renal impairment, reduced antihypertensive effect.
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
Reduced natriuretic and antihypertensive effects.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and occasionally gastrointestinal bleeding. Management involves symptomatic and supportive treatment; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered within an hour of ingestion. Monitor vital signs and renal function.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C in first and second trimesters, D in third trimester. Avoid in late pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Small amounts are excreted in breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin)
- Active peptic ulceration or gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Bronchospasm, rhinitis, or urticaria history following aspirin or other NSAIDs
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery (peri-operative pain)
Drug Interactions
SSRIs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Lithium
Increased plasma lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
Methotrexate
Increased methotrexate toxicity.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
ACE inhibitors/ARBs
Increased risk of renal impairment, reduced antihypertensive effect.
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
Reduced natriuretic and antihypertensive effects.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and occasionally gastrointestinal bleeding. Management involves symptomatic and supportive treatment; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered within an hour of ingestion. Monitor vital signs and renal function.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C in first and second trimesters, D in third trimester. Avoid in late pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Small amounts are excreted in breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy of mefenamic acid in treating pain, dysmenorrhea, and menorrhagia. Ongoing research continues to evaluate its long-term safety profile and comparative effectiveness.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) for prolonged therapy
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, BUN)
- Liver function tests (e.g., ALT, AST)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize short-term use and potential gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks to patients.
- Consider prophylactic proton pump inhibitors for patients at high risk of GI complications.
- Monitor renal function, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal conditions or on concomitant medications affecting kidney function.
- Caution against concurrent use with other NSAIDs, anticoagulants, or lithium.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, stomach ulcers, kidney problems, or asthma.
- Report any unusual bleeding, black or tarry stools, or severe abdominal pain to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid concurrent use of other NSAIDs without medical advice.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
- Maintain adequate hydration.
- Stop smoking if you do, as it can worsen GI risks.
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