Mefenamic acid
Mefenamic acid is a anti-inflammatory painkiller (NSAID) found in 13 medicines sold in India, such as Meftal 500, Meftal-Spas, Pause-MF. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
Also called: mefenamic
What it is used for
Mainly used for period pain and heavy periods, and for mild to moderate pain.
How it works
An NSAID that lowers prostaglandins in the womb lining, which is why it is used for period pain and heavy periods.
How to take it
Usually 250 to 500 mg three times a day with or after food, for no more than 7 days. For periods, start on the first day of bleeding or when pain begins.
Common side effects
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Heartburn
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
Get medical help straight away if
- Diarrhoea that does not stop (stop taking it)
- Black stools
- Skin rash
- Wheezing
- Swelling of the face
Be careful
Take after food. Can upset the stomach; stop if diarrhoea or rash develops.
Other medicines and interactions
Avoid with other NSAIDs. Raises bleeding risk with warfarin and other blood thinners; can affect kidney function with diuretics and blood pressure medicines.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not advised in pregnancy, especially the last three months. Usually avoided while breastfeeding; ask a doctor about alternatives.
Brands of Mefenamic acid (1)
Combination medicines that contain Mefenamic acid (12)
Common questions
What is Mefenamic acid used for?
Mainly used for period pain and heavy periods, and for mild to moderate pain.
How does Mefenamic acid work?
An NSAID that lowers prostaglandins in the womb lining, which is why it is used for period pain and heavy periods.
How should I take Mefenamic acid?
Usually 250 to 500 mg three times a day with or after food, for no more than 7 days. For periods, start on the first day of bleeding or when pain begins.
What are the side effects of Mefenamic acid?
Common: Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea, heartburn, drowsiness, dizziness. Get help straight away for: Diarrhoea that does not stop (stop taking it), black stools, skin rash, wheezing, swelling of the face.
Does Mefenamic acid interact with other medicines?
Avoid with other NSAIDs. Raises bleeding risk with warfarin and other blood thinners; can affect kidney function with diuretics and blood pressure medicines.
Is Mefenamic acid safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Not advised in pregnancy, especially the last three months. Usually avoided while breastfeeding; ask a doctor about alternatives.
Does Mefenamic acid need a prescription in India?
Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.
Which brands contain Mefenamic acid?
Almefkem Spas, Biospas Plus, Cyclopam-MF, Drotin-M, Mef Spas, Mefacid Spas, Mefkind-Spas, Mefran Spas, Meftal 500, Meftal-Spas, Pause-MF, Spasmofirst, Spasmonil Plus.
Sources and further reading
- Mefenamic acid: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
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