Mefenamic acid

Mefenamic acid is a member of the anthranilic acid derivatives (or fenamate) class of NSAID drugs, and is used to treat mild to moderate pain, including menstrual pain, and is sometimes used to prevent migraines associated with menstruation. It is not widely used due to its side effects.

It was discovered and brought to market by Parke-Davis in the 1960s under brandnames Ponstan, Ponalar, Ponstyl, and Ponstel. It became generic in the 1980s is available worldwide under many brand names.

Medical use

Mefenamic acid is used to treat moderate pain and menstrual pain. It is not widely used.

There is evidence that supports the use of mefenamic acid for perimenstrual migraine headache prophylaxis, with treatment starting 2 days prior to the onset of flow or 1 day prior to the expected onset of the headache and continuing for the duration of menstruation. A study also showed mefenamic acid to be a well tolerated analgesic for post-surgical pain in dental operations.

Side effects

Mefenamic acid is recommended to be taken with food.