Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) 50mg/5ml Suspension 60ml

 50mg/5ml Suspension

NON-STEROIDAL

ANTI-INFLAMATORY DRUG

& ANTIRHEUMATIC (FENAMATES)

Here is the detailed information for Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) 50mg/5ml Suspension 60ml:

Product Description:

Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that provides pain relief and reduces inflammation. This suspension formulation contains 50mg of Mefenamic Acid per 5ml of liquid, and is primarily used for treating mild to moderate pain, as well as conditions associated with inflammation.

Mefenamic acid works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX), an enzyme involved in the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin production, Mefenamic acid helps to alleviate symptoms like pain and swelling.

This medication is typically available in a suspension form, making it easier for patients, especially children, to take the medication.

Indications:

Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) is indicated for the treatment of:

1. Mild to Moderate Pain:

   • Such as pain from dental procedures, headaches, musculoskeletal pain, menstrual pain, or postoperative pain.

2. Dysmenorrhea (Painful Menstruation):

   • Used to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with primary dysmenorrhea.

3. Inflammatory Conditions:

   • Can be used to manage symptoms of conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, although it's generally used for short-term management of acute pain.

Dosage and Administration:

The dosage of Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) depends on the age of the patient and the condition being treated. Here are the general dosing guidelines:

For Adults:

• Initial Dose: 500mg (10ml of suspension, which equals 10ml containing 100mg of Mefenamic acid).

• Maintenance Dose: 250mg (5ml of suspension, which equals 5ml containing 50mg of Mefenamic acid) every 6-8 hours as needed.

• Maximum Dose: 1.5g (30ml of suspension) per day, typically not exceeding 7 days for any condition.

For Children (12 years and older):

• The adult dose can be used in children over 12 years, but the dosage should be carefully monitored by a healthcare provider.

For Children (6 to 12 years):

• Initial Dose: 250mg (5ml of suspension, containing 50mg of Mefenamic acid) every 6-8 hours.

• Maximum Dose: 1.5g (30ml) per day, up to 7 days.

For Children (2 to 5 years):

• Initial Dose: 125mg (2.5ml of suspension) every 6 hours.

• Maximum Dose: 750mg (15ml) per day.

Note: Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) should be taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal irritation.

Side Effects:

Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen), like other NSAIDs, may cause side effects. The most common side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Issues:

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort.

  • Risk of gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gastric bleeding with prolonged use.

• Dizziness or headache.

• Rash or other skin reactions.

Serious Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding:

  • Ulceration, bleeding, or perforation of the stomach or intestines, especially in older adults or patients with a history of gastrointestinal issues.

• Kidney Dysfunction:

  • Renal impairment, with symptoms such as fluid retention, swelling of extremities, and decreased urine output.

• Liver Dysfunction:

  • Elevated liver enzymes or signs of hepatitis (e.g., jaundice, dark urine).

• Cardiovascular Effects:

  • Prolonged use of NSAIDs, especially in high doses, may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

• Severe Allergic Reactions:

  • Symptoms of an allergic reaction include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing, which require immediate medical attention.

• Anemia:

  • Long-term use may cause a decrease in red blood cell count, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or paleness.

Contraindications:

Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) should be avoided in the following situations:

1. Hypersensitivity:

   • Individuals who are allergic to Mefenamic acid, other NSAIDs, or any of the ingredients in the product should not use this medication.

2. Gastrointestinal Disorders:

   • History of peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Mefenamic acid can exacerbate these conditions.

3. Severe Renal or Hepatic Impairment:

   • Patients with severe renal or liver impairment should avoid this medication, as it may worsen kidney or liver function.

4. Cardiovascular Diseases:

   • Mefenamic acid should be avoided in patients with a history of heart disease, hypertension, or those at risk for cardiovascular events due to the potential cardiovascular risks associated with NSAIDs.

5. Pregnancy:

   • Mefenamic acid should not be used during the third trimester of pregnancy due to the potential risk to the fetus, such as premature closure of the ductus arteriosus (a blood vessel important in fetal circulation). It should also be used cautiously during the first and second trimesters only if absolutely necessary.

6. Breastfeeding:

   • Mefenamic acid is excreted in breast milk, and its use should be avoided during breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary.

7. Asthma:

   • Caution is advised for patients with asthma, as NSAIDs may worsen symptoms or trigger asthma attacks in sensitive individuals (known as aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease).

Precautions:

1. Prolonged Use:

   • Long-term or high-dose use of Mefenamic Acid can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcer formation, or kidney damage. It is advised to monitor patients who require prolonged treatment closely.

2. Use in the Elderly:

   • Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of NSAIDs, such as gastric irritation, kidney damage, and cardiovascular events. The lowest effective dose should be used, and the treatment duration should be minimized.

3. Fluid Retention:

   • Mefenamic acid may cause fluid retention, so patients with conditions like heart failure or hypertension should use it cautiously.

4. Drug Interactions:

   • Mefenamic acid may interact with other medications, such as:

     • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), increasing the risk of bleeding.

     • Lithium, as NSAIDs may increase lithium levels, leading to toxicity.

     • Diuretics and ACE inhibitors, where NSAIDs can reduce the effectiveness of these drugs and potentially worsen kidney function.

     • Methotrexate, as NSAIDs can interfere with its elimination, increasing the risk of toxicity.

Summary:

Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) is a NSAID that is used to treat mild to moderate pain, including dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain), and inflammatory conditions. The 50mg/5ml suspension is ideal for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets, including children and elderly individuals.

• Indications: Mild to moderate pain, dysmenorrhea, inflammatory conditions (e.g., osteoarthritis).

• Dosage: Generally, 500mg (10ml) initially, followed by 250mg (5ml) every 6-8 hours. Maximum daily dose is 1.5g (30ml).

• Side Effects: Includes gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, allergic reactions, and serious risks like gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney and liver problems, and cardiovascular effects.

• Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy (third trimester), severe renal/hepatic impairment, gastritis, and hypersensitivity to NSAIDs.

Always use Mefenamic Acid (Myrefen) as directed by your healthcare provider, and consult them if you have any concerns or experience any unusual side effects.