Mefenamic Acid 500mg Tablets
Buy Mefenamic Acid 500mg tablets for period pain relief
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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.
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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.
Period Pain 1 x 500mg tablet 3 times daily -
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.
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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.
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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.
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How much does it cost to buy Mefenamic Acid online in the UK?
Dosage Quantity Buy Online UK Price Mefenamic Acid 500mg Tablets 28 Tablets £34.99 Mefenamic Acid 500mg Tablets 56 Tablets £62.99 Mefenamic Acid 500mg Tablets 84 Tablets £79.99 Mefenamic Acid 500mg Tablets 112 Tablets £110.99 -
Is Mefenamic Acid the same as ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is also a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and works to relieve pain and inflammation just like Mefenamic Acid. Ibuprofen can be purchased without a prescription to treat a range of painful conditions like toothache, period pain and arthritic pain.Can I take Mefenamic Acid to prevent periods?
No, Mefenamic Acid cannot prevent, shorten or delay periods. It should only be taken to relieve the pain caused by periods.Can Mefenamic Acid relieve toothache?
Yes, Mefenamic Acid can be prescribed for toothache. Over the counter medicines like ibuprofen can also be taken for toothache.Can I drink alcohol with it?
Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of serious side effects, such as seizures. For this reason, you are advised to avoid alcohol while taking Mefenamic Acid.Can I take Mefenamic Acid and paracetamol at the same time?
No drug interactions have been found between Mefenamic Acid and paracetamol. It is safe to take Mefenamic Acid and Paracetamol at the same time.How long does Mefenamic Acid take to work?
You should start to feel better after between two and four hours of taking Mefenamic Acid. Each dose can provide pain relief for up to around 8 hours. This medicine can be taken up to three times a day, ensuring you can be pain-free throughout the day.What if it doesn’t work?
You should give Mefenamic Acid up to four hours to relieve discomfort. If you find that Mefenamic Acid is not effectively relieving your pain, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose.Is Mefenamic Acid a painkiller?
Mefenamic Acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can effectively relieve pain and inflammation.Is Mefenamic Acid more effective than paracetamol?
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Mefenamic Acid have been found to be more effective than paracetamol for period pain. Paracetamol may be more suitable for other types of pain.Will Mefenamic Acid affect my contraception?
No, taking Mefenamic Acid will have no direct impact on any contraception. Combined oral contraceptives can also help with period pain.What is Mefenamic Acid used to treat?
Mefenamic acid is used to relieve mild to moderate pain caused by a number of conditions, primarily it is used to treat period pain.Is Mefenamic acid the same as Ponstan?
Mefenamic acid and Ponstan are the same, they contain the same active ingredient (Mefenamic Acid), and come in the exact same dosage (500mg).
Written by: Hussain Abdeh MPharm: 2211840
Updated on: 12/01/2022
This content has been written by our Superintendent Pharmacist Hussain Abdeh and has been medically reviewed by our Pharmacist Sonia Khan
Hussain Abdeh
MPharm: 2211840
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber
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- 1 Choose your treatment Select the treatment or medication you need and answer a few questions online regarding your condition.
- 2 Online consultation Our Independent Prescribers will review your questions and assess your suitability for the medication.
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