Mefnac Tablet Uses

Mefnac tablet belongs to a class of drugs known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is primarily used for the treatment of mild-to-moderate pain and inflammation. Following are some common and off-label uses of Mefnac Tablets:

1. Pain Relief: Mefnac is used to relieve mild to moderate pain of various origins, including headache, dental pain, menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), musculoskeletal pain, and postoperative pain.
2. Dysmenorrhea: Mefnac is often prescribed to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with dysmenorrhea, which is severe menstrual cramping. It can help reduce the intensity of menstrual pain and improve overall well-being during the menstrual cycle.
3. Arthritis: Mefnac may be used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with various forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It can help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, improving mobility and overall comfort.
4. Postoperative Pain: Mefnac can be used to manage pain following surgical procedures. It helps relieve postoperative pain and inflammation, facilitating recovery and improving patient comfort.
5. Dental Pain: Mefnac may be used to alleviate dental pain, such as toothaches or pain following dental procedures. It can help reduce pain and inflammation in the oral cavity.

Off-label Uses of Mefnac Tablet

1. Migraine Headaches: Mefnac has been reported to provide relief for some individuals experiencing migraine headaches. It may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with migraines. However, specific migraine treatments and preventive medications are available, so it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate management.
2. Postoperative Dysmenorrhea: Mefnac may be used off-label for the treatment of dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain) that occurs after certain gynecological procedures, such as dilation and curettage (D&C). It can help alleviate postoperative pain and cramps associated with the procedure.

Mefnac is one of the leading brands of Mefenamic Acid, manufactured and marketed by Efroze Chemical Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Mefnac DS is also available with the double strength (dose) of Mefenamic acid.

The following are some alternative brands of Mefnac and their manufacturers.

• Ponstan : Pfizer Laboratories Inc.
• Mefacid : Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Dolor : Adamjee Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Zopan : Pharmatec Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
• Boschtan : Bosch Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Febrin : Remington Pharmaceutical Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Fenamic : Unexo Labs (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Mefadil : P.D.H Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Mefgesic : Wilsons Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
• Kamic : Stanley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Presently, Mefnac is available in Tablets and Suspension Forms with the following strengths.

Mefnac Tablet : 250mg strength.

Mefnac DS Tablets : 500mg strength.

Mefnac Suspension : 50mg/5ml strength.

Mefnac has certain contraindications, which are medical conditions or situations where the use of Mefnac is not recommended due to potential risks or adverse effects.

Allergic Reactions: Mefnac should not be used by individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to Mefnac or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Allergic reactions to NSAIDs can range from mild symptoms such as rash and itching to severe reactions, including difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.

Asthma, Nasal Polyps, and Aspirin Sensitivity: Mefnac is contraindicated in individuals with a history of asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, or sensitivity to aspirin or other NSAIDs. These individuals may be at an increased risk of developing severe bronchospasm, asthma attacks, or allergic reactions upon using Mefnac.

Active Peptic Ulcer Disease or Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Mefnac should not be used in individuals with active peptic ulcer disease (ulcers in the stomach or duodenum) or a history of gastrointestinal bleeding. NSAIDs, including Mefnac, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, and perforation.

Severe Kidney or Liver Dysfunction: Mefnac is contraindicated in individuals with severe kidney or liver dysfunction. It is important to use caution in individuals with mild to moderate impairment of kidney or liver function, as Mefnac can further impair the function of these organs.

Third Trimester of Pregnancy: Mefnac should generally be avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy due to the potential risk of complications to the developing fetus, including premature closure of the ductus arteriosus (a blood vessel in the heart).

Children and Adolescents with Viral Infections: Mefnac is contraindicated in children and adolescents with viral infections, particularly varicella (chickenpox) and influenza, due to the increased risk of developing Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition affecting the liver and brain.

Mefnac Dose for Pain Relief:

• Initial Dose: One Tablet of Mefnac DS (500mg)
• Followed Dose: One Tablet Mefnac (250mg) every 6 hours as needed.
• The maximum daily dose should not exceed 1,500 mg (or 3,000 mg in some cases under medical supervision).

Mefnac Dose for Dysmenorrhea:

• Initial Dose: One Tablet of Mefnac DS (500mg)
• Followed Dose: One Tablet Mefnac (250mg) every 6 hours as needed.
• Treatment is typically started at the onset of menstrual pain and continued for a few days as directed by your healthcare professional.

Mefnac works by inhibiting both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, although it has a higher affinity for COX-2. By inhibiting these enzymes, Mefnac interferes with the conversion of arachidonic acid, a fatty acid found in cell membranes, into prostaglandins. This leads to a reduction in the production of prostaglandins, which results in decreased inflammation, alleviation of pain, and reduction of fever.