NAME

CLASSIFICATION

MECHANISM OF ACTION Mefenamic acid binds the prostaglandin synthetase receptors COX-1 and COX-2, inhibiting the action of prostaglandin synthetase. As these receptors have a role as a major mediator of inflammation and/or a role for prostanoid signaling in activity-dependent plasticity, the symptoms of pain are temporarily reduced.

INDICATION/ CONTRAINDICATION

SIDE-EFFECTS

NURSING CONSIDERATIONS 1. Assess patients who develop severe diarrhea and vomiting for dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. 2. Discontinue drug promptly if diarrhea, dark stools, hematemesis, ecchymoses, epistaxis, or rash occur and do not use again. Contact physician. 3. Notify physician if persistent GI discomfort, sore throat, fever, or malaise occur. 4. Lab tests: With longterm therapy (not recommended) obtain periodic complete blood counts, Hct and Hgb, and kidney function tests.

Generic name: Mefenamic Acid Brand name: Ponstel 1 cap 500mg every 6 hours

Analgesic; Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug

Indications: - Rheumatoid arthritis - Mild to moderate pain - Dental pain - Postoperative pain - Dysmenorrhoea - Osteoarthritis - Menorrhagia Contraindications: - Inflammatory intestinal diseases - Active peptic ulcers - Hypersensitivity to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents - Renal failure

- Bloody nose - Black, tarry stools - Blood in the urine or stools - Vomiting blood - Red or purple spots on the skin. - Nausea - Fatigue - Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice) - Excessive tiredness - Swelling of the face or body - Blisters - Unexplained skin rash - Wheezing - Difficulty breathing - Chest pain - Shortness of breath - Weakness on one side of your body - Slurred speech