Mefenamic Acid for Seniors: Safety, Dosage & Guidelines
A clear guide on using mefenamic acid in older adults, covering safety issues, proper dosing, contraindications, drug interactions and practical tips for clinicians and caregivers.
Mefenamic Acid Dosage: Safe Use, Side Effects, and Alternatives
When you need strong pain relief—especially for menstrual cramps or muscle inflammation—mefenamic acid, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for short-term pain and inflammation. Also known as Ponstel, it works by blocking the body’s pain signals at the source. But taking it wrong can lead to stomach bleeding, kidney stress, or heart risks. The standard dose for adults is 500 mg at first, then 250 mg every 6 hours as needed. Don’t go over 1,500 mg a day, and never use it for more than a week unless your doctor says so. It’s not meant for daily, long-term use like ibuprofen or naproxen.
NSAIDs, a class of drugs that reduce pain, fever, and inflammation by targeting enzymes in the body like mefenamic acid all carry similar risks. If you have a history of ulcers, high blood pressure, or kidney problems, this drug might not be safe for you. And mixing it with blood thinners, SSRIs, or other NSAIDs? That’s a bad combo. Even something as simple as drinking alcohol while taking it can spike your chance of stomach damage. Many people don’t realize that mefenamic acid is especially common for menstrual pain—but it’s not always the best choice. For some, acetaminophen or low-dose naproxen work just as well with fewer side effects.
Women using it for cramps often report relief within an hour, but if you’re still in pain after two days, it’s time to check in with a provider. Chronic pelvic pain? That’s not just cramps—it could be endometriosis, fibroids, or something else needing different treatment. And if you’re over 60, or taking meds for heart disease or diabetes, mefenamic acid might do more harm than good. There are safer, targeted options out there, and your body’s response matters more than what’s advertised.
What you’ll find below are real, no-fluff comparisons and warnings from people who’ve been there: what works, what doesn’t, and when to walk away from this drug entirely. You’ll see how mefenamic acid stacks up against other pain relievers, what side effects actually show up in practice, and which alternatives doctors recommend when this one fails. No guesswork. Just clear, tested info to help you decide what’s right for you.
