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 Safety: Risks, Interactions, and What You Need to Know
When you reach for mefenamic acid, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used for short-term pain and menstrual cramps. Also known as Ponstel, it’s often chosen for its quick relief—but it’s not as harmless as it seems. Unlike some painkillers, mefenamic acid carries real risks you can’t ignore, especially if you’re taking other meds or have underlying health issues.
The biggest danger? gastrointestinal bleeding, a serious side effect tied to NSAIDs like mefenamic acid. It doesn’t always come with warning signs. One day you feel fine; the next, you’re in the ER with internal bleeding. People over 65, those with ulcers, or anyone on blood thinners like warfarin are at higher risk. Even short-term use can trigger this. And it’s not just your stomach. kidney damage, a known risk with prolonged NSAID use can sneak up, especially if you’re dehydrated or have high blood pressure. If you’re taking diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or even some diabetes meds, mefenamic acid can make things worse.
Then there are the drug interactions, hidden dangers that aren’t always flagged by pharmacists. Mixing mefenamic acid with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen? That’s a one-way ticket to stomach trouble. Taking it with SSRIs like sertraline? Your risk of bleeding shoots up. Even aspirin, often thought of as harmless, can team up with mefenamic acid to cause ulcers. And don’t forget alcohol—drinking while on this drug increases liver stress and stomach irritation. These aren’t rare cases. Studies show over 30% of ER visits linked to NSAIDs involve people taking multiple drugs they didn’t realize clashed.
It’s not all bad news. For healthy adults under 50 with no history of ulcers or kidney problems, mefenamic acid can be safe when used exactly as directed—short bursts, lowest dose possible. But if you’re managing chronic pain, it’s not the answer. There are safer options, like acetaminophen for mild pain, or physical therapy for menstrual cramps. The point isn’t to scare you—it’s to make you ask the right questions before popping another pill. What’s your real goal? Quick relief, or long-term safety? The posts below break down real cases, side effect reports, and alternatives that actually work without putting your body at risk.
