Mefenamic Acid 250 Mg Oral Capsule
BOXED WARNING
Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
-
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use.
(see
Warnings ). -
Mefenamic acid is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
(see
Contraindications ,Warnings ).
-
NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk for serious GI events
(see
Warnings ).
DESCRIPTION
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action of mefenamic acid, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2).
Mefenamic acid is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis in vitro. Mefenamic acid concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation. Because mefenamic acid is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, its mode of action may be due to a decrease of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Following a single 1-gram oral dose, mean peak plasma levels ranging from 10 to 20 mcg/mL have been reported. Peak plasma levels are attained in 2 to 4 hours and the elimination half-life approximates 2 hours. Following multiple doses, plasma levels are proportional to dose with no evidence of drug accumulation. In a multiple dose trial of normal adult subjects (n=6) receiving 1-gram doses of mefenamic acid four times daily, steady-state concentrations of 20 mcg/mL were reached on the second day of administration, consistent with the short half-life.
The effect of food on the rate and extent of absorption of mefenamic acid has not been studied. Concomitant ingestion of antacids containing magnesium hydroxide has been shown to significantly increase the rate and extent of mefenamic acid absorption
(see
Distribution
Based on its physical and chemical properties, mefenamic acid is expected to be excreted in human breast milk
(see
Elimination
Mefenamic acid is metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP2C9 to 3-hydroxymethyl mefenamic acid (Metabolite I). Further oxidation to a 3-carboxymefenamic acid (Metabolite II) may occur. The activity of these metabolites has not been studied. The metabolites may undergo glucuronidation and mefenamic acid is also glucuronidated directly. A peak plasma level approximating 20 mcg/mL was observed at 3 hours for the hydroxy metabolite and its glucuronide (n=6) after a single 1-gram dose. Similarly, a peak plasma level of 8 mcg/mL was observed at 6 to 8 hours for the carboxy metabolite and its glucuronide.
Excretion:
Approximately fifty-two percent of a mefenamic acid dose is excreted into the urine primarily as glucuronides of mefenamic acid (6%), 3-hydroxymefenamic acid (25%) and 3-carboxymefenamic acid (21%). The fecal route of elimination accounts for up to 20% of the dose, mainly in the form of unconjugated 3-carboxymefenamic acid.
The elimination half-life of mefenamic acid is approximately two hours. Half-lives of metabolites I and II have not been precisely reported, but appear to be longer than the parent compound. The metabolites may accumulate in patients with renal or hepatic failure. The mefenamic acid glucuronide may bind irreversibly to plasma proteins. Because both renal and hepatic excretions are significant pathways of elimination, dosage adjustments in patients with renal or hepatic dysfunction may be necessary. Mefenamic acid should not be administered to patients with pre-existing renal disease or in patients with significantly impaired renal function
(see
|
PK
Parameters
|
Normal
Healthy
Adults
( 18 to 45 yr ) |
|
|
|
Value
|
CV
|
| T
m
a
x(hr)
|
2
|
66
|
| Oral clearance (L/hr)
|
21.13
|
38
|
| Apparent volume of distribution; Vz/F (L/kg)
|
1.06
|
60
|
| Half-life; t ½ (hrs)
|
2 to 4
|
N/A
|
Special Populations
Mefenamic acid has not been adequately investigated in pediatric patients less than 14 years of age. A study in 17 preterm infants administered 2 mg/kg indicated that the half-life was about five times as long as adults, consistent with the low activity of metabolic enzymes in newborn infants. The mean C maxin this study was 4 mcg/mL (range 2.9 to 6.1). The mean time to maximum concentration (T max) was 8 hours (range 2 to 18 hours).
Race:
Pharmacokinetic differences due to race have not been identified.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mefenamic acid pharmacokinetics have not been studied in patients with hepatic dysfunction. As hepatic metabolism is a significant pathway of mefenamic acid elimination, patients with acute and chronic hepatic disease may require reduced doses of mefenamic acid compared to patients with normal hepatic function
(see
Renal Impairment:
Mefenamic acid pharmacokinetics have not been investigated in subjects with renal insufficiency. Given that mefenamic acid, its metabolites and conjugates are primarily excreted by the kidneys, the potential exists for mefenamic acid metabolites to accumulate. Mefenamic acid should not be administered to patients with pre-existing renal disease or in patients with significantly impaired renal function
(see
Drug Interaction Studies
When NSAIDs were administered with aspirin, the protein binding of NSAIDs were reduced, although the clearance of free NSAID was not altered. The clinical significance of this interaction is not known. See Table 2 for clinically significant drug interactions of NSAIDs with aspirin
(see
Clinical Studies
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
Mefenamic acid capsules are indicated:
- For relief of mild to moderate pain in patients ≥14 years of age, when therapy will not exceed one week (7 days).
- For treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
- Known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and serious skin reactions) to mefenamic acid or any components of the drug product
(see
WARNINGS ;Anaphylactic Reactions, Serious Skin Reactions ). - History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients
(see
WARNINGS ;Anaphylactic Reaction, Exacerbation of Asthma Related to Aspirin Sensitivity ). - In the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
(see
WARNINGS ;Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events ).
WARNINGS
Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in NSAID-treated patients, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events throughout the entire treatment course, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. Patients should be informed about the symptoms of serious CV events and the steps to take if they occur.
There is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events associated with NSAID use. The concurrent use of aspirin and an NSAID, such as mefenamic acid, increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) events
(see
Status Post Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery
Post-MI Patients
Avoid the use of mefenamic acid in patients with a recent MI unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent CV thrombotic events. If mefenamic acid is used in patients with a recent MI, monitor patients for signs of cardiac ischemia.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation
Risk Factors for GI Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation
Strategies to Minimize the GI Risks in NSAID-treated patients
- Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest possible duration.
- Avoid administration of more than one NSAID at a time.
- Avoid use in patients at higher risk unless benefits are expected to outweigh the increased risk of bleeding. For such patients, as well as those with active GI bleeding, consider alternate therapies other than NSAIDs.
- Remain alert for signs and symptoms of GI ulceration and bleeding during NSAID therapy.
- If a serious GI adverse event is suspected, promptly initiate evaluation and treatment, and discontinue mefenamic acid until a serious GI adverse event is ruled out.
- In the setting of concomitant use of low-dose aspirin for cardiac prophylaxis, monitor patients more closely for evidence of GI bleeding
(see
Precautions ;Drug Interactions ).
Hepatotoxicity
Elevations of ALT or AST (less than three times ULN) may occur in up to 15% of patients treated with NSAIDs including mefenamic acid.
Inform patients of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, diarrhea, pruritus, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and "flu-like" symptoms). If clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop, or if systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, etc.), discontinue mefenamic acid immediately, and perform a clinical evaluation of the patient.
Hypertension
Monitor blood pressure (BP) during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.
Heart Failure and Edema
Additionally, fluid retention and edema have been observed in some patients treated with NSAIDs. Use of mefenamic acid may blunt the CV effects of several therapeutic agents used to treat these medical conditions (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers [ARBs])
(see
Avoid the use of mefenamic acid in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure. If mefenamic acid is used in patients with severe heart failure, monitor patients for signs of worsening heart failure.
Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia
Renal Toxicity
Renal toxicity has also been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion. In these patients, administration of an NSAID may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk of this reaction are those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction, those taking diuretics and ACE inhibitors or ARBs, and the elderly. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy is usually followed by recovery to the pretreatment state.
No information is available from controlled clinical studies regarding the use of mefenamic acid in patients with advanced renal disease. The renal effects of mefenamic acid may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with pre-existing renal disease.
Correct volume status in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating mefenamic acid. Monitor renal function in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during use of mefenamic acid
(see
Hyperkalemia
Anaphylactic Reactions
Seek emergency help if anaphylactic reaction occurs.
Exacerbation of Asthma Related to Aspirin Sensitivity
Serious Skin Reactions
Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)
Fetal Toxicity
Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus
Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment
If NSAID treatment is necessary between about 20 weeks and 30 weeks gestation, limit mefenamic acid use to the lowest effective dose and shortest duration possible. Consider ultrasound monitoring of amniotic fluid if mefenamic acid treatment extends beyond 48 hours. Discontinue mefenamic acid if oligohydramnios occurs and follow up according to clinical practice [
see
Hematological Toxicity
NSAIDs, including mefenamic acid, may increase the risk of bleeding events. Co-morbid conditions such as coagulation disorders or concomitant use of warfarin, other anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may increase this risk. Monitor these patients for signs of bleeding
(see
PRECAUTIONS
General
Information for Patients
Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation
Hepatotoxicity
Heart Failure and Edema
Anaphylactic Reactions
Serious Skin Reactions, including DRESS
Female Fertility
Fetal Toxicity
Avoid Concomitant Use of NSAIDs
Use of NSAIDS and Low-Dose Aspirin
Masking of Inflammation and Fever
Laboratory Monitoring
Drug Interactions
|
Drugs That Interfere with Hemostasis
|
|
|
Clinical Impact:
|
Mefenamic acid and anticoagulants such as warfarin have a synergistic effect on bleeding. The concomitant use of mefenamic acid and anticoagulants have an increased risk of serious bleeding compared to the use of either drug alone.
Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Case-control and cohort epidemiological studies showed that concomitant use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and an NSAID may potentiate the risk of bleeding more than an NSAID alone. |
|
Intervention:
|
Monitor patients with concomitant use of mefenamic acid with anticoagulants (e.g.,warfarin), antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) for signs of bleeding
(see
|
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Aspirin
|
|
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Clinical Impact:
|
Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone
(see
|
|
Intervention:
|
Concomitant use of mefenamic acid and analgesic doses of aspirin is not generally recommended because of the increased risk of bleeding (see
Mefenamic acid is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection. |
|
ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, and Beta-Blockers
|
|
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Clinical Impact:
|
NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), or beta-blockers (including propranolol).
In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or have renal impairment, co-administration of an NSAID with ACE inhibitors or ARBs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible. |
|
Intervention:
|
During concomitant use of mefenamic acid and ACE-inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers, monitor blood pressure to ensure that the desired blood pressure is obtained.
During concomitant use of mefenamic acid and ACE-inhibitors or ARBs in patients who are elderly, volume-depleted, or have impaired renal function, monitor for signs of worsening renal function (see When these drugs are administered concomitantly, patients should be adequately hydrated. Assess renal function at the beginning of the concomitant treatment and periodically thereafter. |
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Diuretics
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Clinical Impact:
|
Clinical studies, as well as post-marketing observations, showed that NSAIDs reduced the natriuretic effect of loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide diuretics in some patients. This effect has been attributed to the NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis.
|
|
Intervention
|
During concomitant use of mefenamic acid with diuretics, observe patients for signs of worsening renal function, in addition to assuring diuretic efficacy including antihypertensive effects
(see
|
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Digoxin
|
|
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Clinical Impact:
|
The concomitant use of mefenamic acid with digoxin has been reported to increase the serum concentration and prolong the half-life of digoxin.
|
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Intervention:
|
During concomitant use of mefenamic acid and digoxin, monitor serum digoxin levels.
|
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Lithium
|
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Clinical Impact:
|
NSAIDs have produced elevations in plasma lithium levels and reductions in renal lithium clearance
.The mean minimum lithium concentration increased 15%, and the renal clearance decreased by approximately 20%. This effect has been attributed to NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis.
|
|
Intervention:
|
During concomitant use of mefenamic acid and lithium, monitor patients for signs of lithium toxicity.
|
|
Methotrexate
|
|
|
Clinical Impact:
|
Concomitant use of NSAIDs and methotrexate may increase the risk for methotrexate toxicity (e.g., neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, renal dysfunction).
|
|
Intervention:
|
During concomitant use of mefenamic acid and methotrexate, monitor patients for methotrexate toxicity.
|
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Cyclosporine
|
|
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Clinical Impact:
|
Concomitant use of mefenamic acid and cyclosporine may increase cyclosporine's nephrotoxicity.
|
|
Intervention:
|
During concomitant use of mefenamic acid and cyclosporine, monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function.
|
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NSAIDs and Salicylates
|
|
|
Clinical Impact:
|
Concomitant use of mefenamic acid with other NSAIDs or salicylates (e.g., diflunisal, salsalate) increases the risk of GI toxicity, with little or no increase in efficacy
(see
|
|
Intervention:
|
The concomitant use of mefenamic acid with other NSAIDs or salicylates is not recommended.
|
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Pemetrexed
|
|
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Clinical Impact:
|
Concomitant use of mefenamic acid and pemetrexed may increase the risk of pemetrexed-associated myelosuppression, renal, and GI toxicity (see the pemetrexed prescribing information).
|
|
Intervention:
|
During concomitant use of mefenamic acid and pemetrexed, in patients with renal impairment whose creatinine clearance ranges from 45 to 79 mL/min, monitor for myelosuppression, renal and GI toxicity.
NSAIDs with short elimination half-lives (e.g., diclofenac, indomethacin) should be avoided for a period of two days before, the day of, and two days following administration of pemetrexed. In the absence of data regarding potential interaction between pemetrexed and NSAIDs with longer half-lives (e.g., meloxicam, nabumetone), patients taking these NSAIDs should interrupt dosing for at least five days before, the day of, and two days following pemetrexed administration. |
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Antacid
|
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Clinical Impact:
|
In a single dose study (n= 6), ingestion of an antacid containing 1.7-gram of magnesium hydroxide with 500-mg of mefenamic acid increased the Cmax and AUC of mefenamic acid by 125% and 36%, respectively.
|
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Intervention:
|
Concomitant use of mefenamic acid and antacids is not generally recommended because of possible increased adverse events.
|
Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions
A false-positive reaction for urinary bile, using the diazo tablet test, may result after mefenamic acid administration. If biliuria is suspected, other diagnostic procedures, such as the Harrison spot test, should be performed.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Long-term studies in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of mefenamic acid have not been conducted.
Mutagenesis:
Studies to evaluate the mutagenic potential of mefenamic acid have not been completed.
Impairment of Fertility:
Dietary administration of mefenamic acid to male rats 61 days- and to female rats 15 days- prior to mating through to Gestation Day (GD) 21 at a dose of 155 mg/kg/day (equivalent to the Maximum Recommended Human Dose [MRHD] of 1500 mg/day on a mg/m 2basis) resulted in decreased corpora lutea.
In another study, rats administered up to 10-times a human dose of 250 mg showed decreased fertility.
Pregnancy
Risk Summary
Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus
Use of NSAIDs, including mefenamic acid, at about 30 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy increases the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus .
Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment
Use of NSAIDs at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy has been associated with cases of fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios, and in some cases, neonatal renal impairment.
Data from observational studies regarding other potential embryofetal risks of NSAID use in women in the first or second trimesters of pregnancy are inconclusive. Based on animal data, prostaglandins have been shown to have an important role in endometrial vascular permeability, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization. In animal studies, administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors such as mefenamic acid, resulted in increased pre- and post-implantation loss. Prostaglandins also have been shown to have an important role in fetal kidney development. In published animal studies, prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors have been reported to impair kidney development when administered at clinically relevant doses.
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population(s) is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus:
Avoid use of NSAIDs in women at about 30 weeks gestation and later in pregnancy, because NSAIDs, including mefenamic acid, can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus
(see
Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment:
If an NSAID is necessary at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy, limit the use to the lowest effective dose and shortest duration possible. If mefenamic acid treatment extends beyond 48 hours, consider monitoring with ultrasound for oligohydramnios. If oligohydramnios occurs, discontinue mefenamic acid and follow up according to clinical practice
(see
Data
Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus:
Published literature reports that the use of NSAIDs at about 30 weeks of gestation and later in pregnancy may cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.
Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment:
Published studies and postmarketing reports describe maternal NSAID use at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy associated with fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios, and in some cases, neonatal renal impairment. These adverse outcomes are seen, on average, after days to weeks of treatment, although oligohydramnios has been infrequently reported as soon as 48 hours after NSAID initiation. In many cases, but not all, the decrease in amniotic fluid was transient and reversible with cessation of the drug. There have been a limited number of case reports of maternal NSAID use and neonatal renal dysfunction without oligohydramnios, some of which were irreversible. Some cases of such as exchange transfusion or dialysis.
Methodological limitations of these postmarketing studies and reports include lack of a control group; limited information regarding dose, duration, and timing of drug exposure; and concomitant use of other medications. These limitations preclude establishing a reliable estimate of the risk of adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes with maternal NSAID use. Because the published safety data on neonatal outcomes involved mostly preterm infants, the generalizability of certain reported risks to the full-term infant exposed to NSAIDs through maternal use is uncertain.
Animal data
Pregnant rats administered 249 mg/kg of mefenamic acid (1.6-times the MRHD of 1500 mg/day on a mg/m 2basis) from GD 6 to GD 15 did not result in any clear adverse developmental effects.
Pregnant rabbits given 50 mg/kg of mefenamic acid (0.6-times the MRHD on a mg/m 2basis) from GD 6 to GD 18 did not result in any clear treatment-related adverse developmental effects. However, incidences of resorption were greater in treated compared to control animals. This dose was associated with some evidence of maternal toxicity with 4 of 18 rabbits exhibiting diarrhea and weight loss.
Dietary administration of mefenamic acid at a dose of 181 mg/kg (1.2-times the MRHD on a mg/m 2basis) to pregnant rats from GD 15 to weaning resulted in an increased incidence of perinatal death. Treated dams were associated with decreased weight gain and delayed parturition. In another study, dietary administration of mefenamic acid at a dose of 155 mg/kg (equivalent to the MRHD of 1500 mg/day on a mg/m 2basis) to females 15 days prior to mating through to weaning resulted in smaller average litter sizes and higher incidence of perinatal death.
Labor and Delivery
Nursing Mothers
Infertility
Females
Pediatric Use
Geriatric Use
Clinical studies of mefenamic acid did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. As with any NSAID, caution should be exercised in treating the elderly (65 years and older).
This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function
(see
ADVERSE REACTIONS
- Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events
(see
Warnings ) - GI Bleeding, Ulceration and Perforation
(see
Warnings ) - Hepatotoxicity
(see
Warnings ) - Hypertension
(see
Warnings ) - Heart Failure and Edema
(see
Warnings ) - Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia
(see
Warnings ) - Anaphylactic Reactions
(see
Warnings ) - Serious Skin Reactions
(see
Warnings ) - Hematologic Toxicity
(see
Warnings )
Clinical Trials Experience
In patients taking mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs, the most frequently reported adverse experiences occurring in approximately 1 to 10% of patients are:
Gastrointestinal experiences including - abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, gross bleeding/perforation, heartburn, nausea, GI ulcers (gastric/duodenal), vomiting, abnormal renal function, anemia, dizziness, edema, elevated liver enzymes, headaches, increased bleeding time, pruritus, rashes, tinnitus
Additional adverse experiences reported occasionally and listed here by body system include:
Body as a whole
Cardiovascular system
Digestive system
Hemic and lymphatic system
Metabolic and nutritional
Nervous system
Respiratory system
Skin and appendages
Special senses
Urogenital system
Other adverse reactions, which occur rarely are:
Body as a whole
Cardiovascular system
Digestive system
Hemic and lymphatic system
Metabolic and nutritional
Nervous system
Respiratory
Skin and appendages
Special senses
OVERDOSAGE
Manage patients with symptomatic and supportive care following an NSAID overdosage. There are no specific antidotes. Consider emesis and/or activated charcoal (60 to 100 grams in adults, 1 to 2 grams per kg of body weight in pediatric patients) and/or osmotic cathartic in symptomatic patients seen within four hours of ingestion or in patients with a large overdose (5 to 10 times the recommended dosage). Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion may not be useful due to high protein binding.
For additional information about overdosage treatment, contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222).
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
After observing the response to initial therapy with mefenamic acid, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient's needs.
For the relief of acute pain in adults and adolescents ≥14 years of age, the recommended dose is 500 mg as an initial dose followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed, usually not to exceed one week.
For the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea, the recommended dose is 500 mg as an initial dose followed by 250 mg every 6 hours, given orally, starting with the onset of bleeding and associated symptoms. Clinical studies indicate that effective treatment can be initiated with the start of menses and should not be necessary for more than 2 to 3 days.
HOW SUPPLIED
Mefenamic acid capsules USP, 250 mg are available as size '1' capsules having ivory cap and ivory body imprinted with "LU" on cap and "R31" on body in black ink, containing white to off white granular powder.
They are supplied as follows:
Bottles of 30 Capsules NDC 80425-0423-01
Bottles of 60 Capsules NDC 80425-0423-02
Bottles of 90 Capsules NDC 80425-0423-03
Dispense in a tight container as defined in the USP.
Storage:
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Manufactured for:
Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
United States
Manufactured by:
Lupin Limited
Goa 403 722
INDIA
Revised: June 2021 ID#: 267984
Distributed by:
Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC
Mefenamic (me-fe-NAM-ik) Acid Capsules USP
Rx only
Medication Guide for Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS)
What is the most important information I should know about medicines called Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?
NSAID can cause serious side effects, including:
-
Increase risk of a heart attack or stroke that can lead to death.This risk may happen early in treatment and may increase:
- with increasing doses of NSAIDs
- with longer use of NSAIDs
-
Increase risk of bleeding, ulcers and tears (perforation) of the esophagus (tube leading from the mouth to the stomach), stomach and intestines:
- anytime during use
- without warning symptoms
- that may cause death
- past history of stomach ulcers, or stomach or intestinal bleeding with use of NSAIDs
- taking medicines called "corticosteroids", "anticoagulants", "SSRIs", or "SNRIs"
- increasing doses of NSAIDs
- longer use of NSAIDs
- smoking
- drinking alcohol
- older age
- poor health
- advanced liver disease
- bleeding problems
- exactly as prescribed
- at the lowest dose possible for your treatment
- or the shortest time needed
NSAIDs are used to treat pain and redness, swelling, and heat (inflammation) from medical conditions such as different types of arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other types of short-term pain.
Who should not take NSAIDs?
Do not take NSAIDs:
- if you have had an asthma attack, hives, or other allergic reaction with aspirin or any other NSAIDs.
- right before or after heart bypass surgery.
- have liver or kidney problems
- have high blood pressure
- have asthma
- are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Taking NSAIDs at about 20 weeks of pregnancy or later may harm your unborn baby. If you need to take NSAIDs for more than 2 days when you are between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, your healthcare provider may need to monitor the amount of fluid in your womb around your baby. You should not take NSAIDs after about 30 weeks of pregnancy
- are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed
What are the possible side effects of NSAIDs?
NSAIDs can cause serious side effects, including:
See "What is the most important information I should know about medicines called Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)?
- new or worse high blood pressure
- heart failure
- liver problems including liver failure
- kidney problem including kidney failure
- low red blood cells (anemia)
- life-threatening skin reactions
- life-threatening allergic reactions
- Other side effects if NSAIDs include:stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
- shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- chest pain
- weakness in one part or side of your body
- slurred speech
- swelling of the face or throat
- nausea
- more tired or weaker than usual
- diarrhea
- itching
- your skin or eyes look yellow
- indigestion or stomach pain
- flu-like symptoms
- vomit blood
- there is blood in the bowel movement or it is black and sticky like tar
- unusual weight gain
- skin rash or blisters with fever
- swelling of the arms, legs, hands, and feet
These are not all of the possible side effects of NSAIDs. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about NSAIDs.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc at 1-800-399-2561.
Other information about NSAIDs
- Aspirin is an NSAID medicine but it does not increase the chance of a heart attack.
- Aspirin can cause bleeding in the brain, stomach, and intestines. Aspirin can also cause ulcers in the stomach and intestines.
- Some NSAIDs are sold in lower doses without a prescription (over-the-counter). Talk to your healthcare provider before using over-the-counter NSAID for more than 10 days.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use NSAIDs for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give NSAIDs to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.
If you would like more information about NSAIDs, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about NSAIDs that is written for health professionals.
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Manufactured for:
Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
United States
Manufactured by:
Lupin Limited
Goa 403 722
INDIA.
Revised: June 2021 ID#: 267985
PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL