What is Mefenamic Acid 500 mg Tablets? 

Mefenamic acid is the brand name for a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID) known to treat simple and moderate pains including dysmenorrhea. A pain reliever, it functions by inhibiting prostaglandins, thus preventing them from causing pain and swelling within a patient's body.  

The medication is essentially used to treat menstrual cramps and other conditions within a patient's body. It is widely used by women all over the world in relief of painful periods. 

What is Mefenamic Acid Used For? 

Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea): It is commonly used to treat dysmenorrhea and reduce inflammation associated with menstruation. 
Other Uses for Pain: It may be prescribed for patients with conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. 
How Mefenamic Acid Works 

Mefenamic acid acts on the synthesis of prostaglandins, the chemical mediators in the body that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. This results in a decrease in the pain and swelling caused by any condition. 

Mechanism of Action: 

Inhibits Prostaglandins: It inhibits the activity of those enzymes which cause the synthesis of prostaglandins. That reduces the effect of inflammation and pain. 
Minimisation of Pain and Swelling: It reduces pain and swelling levels by lowering the prostaglandin levels to provide relief. 
Improves Comfort: The prostaglandins are reduced within the body, leading to improved comfort during menstrual periods and other associated inflammatory conditions. 

When is Period Pain Confirmed, and Medication Needed? 

Menstrual pain is confirmed if a woman suffers from recurring menstrual cramps that disturb her ability to engage in everyday activities. It is more intense and prolonged compared to simple discomfort and may negatively impact a woman's physical and emotional state. Many different causes trigger this; it is usually the result of either a physiological or hormonal alteration within the menstrual cycle. 

Physical Causes of Period Pain: 

Prostaglandins: Increased prostaglandins cause contractions of the uterus, which is the primary cause of menstrual cramps 
Endometriosis: This is a condition in which tissue that looks like the uterine lining grows outside the uterus and causes severe pain. 
Fibroids: These are benign growths either inside or outside the uterus and cause intense cramping and pain. 
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is an infection of the organs that constitute the female reproductive system and may lead to chronic pain. 

Hormonal Causes of Period Pain: 

Estrogen Imbalance: An overabundance of estrogen stimulates the production of prostaglandins, which in turn increases cramping. 
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Hormonal imbalances will worsen periods. 

Symptoms of Period Pain: 

Severe cramping on the lower abdomen or pelvis 
Cramping that may extend to the back or thighs 
Headaches, nausea, or vomiting in severe cases 
Pain that persists for over 1–2 days 

If these persist for cycles of a few times or affect everyday life, one should visit a doctor. Depending on the symptoms and history, and sometimes tests like ultrasound or laparoscopy, doctors will diagnose period pain. The medicines that might be prescribed for it include Mefenamic acid, which can reduce inflammation and pain. For more serious conditions, a physician may advise on other medication or therapies like hormonal birth control or heat therapy. It is always best to seek a doctor for the right prescription. 

Can Mefenamic acid 500mg tablets be purchased over the counter? 

Yes, mefenamic acid can be purchased in certain countries without prescription to alleviate short-term mild and moderate pain associated with conditions such as period pains. In the UK for example, the medication is only bought over the counter in particular formulations and strength.  

Higher doses or longer periods of treatment, however, require a prescription. When buying over the counter, one should consult with a pharmacist to ensure that it is appropriate for you, given your health conditions and medical history. 

Alternative Medications 

It is one of the most common treatments for period pain, but other medications and treatments exist based on individual needs. Here are some alternatives: 

Ibuprofen (Advil, Nurofen): This medicine belongs to the NSAIDs class. It is indicated whenever there is a need to relieve pain, especially menstrual cramps. It works precisely like Mefenamic acid, where it suppresses inflammation and pain. 
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): Paracetamol can be given for the relief of mild to moderate pain. It is offered with NSAIDs when NSAIDs can't be administered to the patient. 
Hormonal Birth Control: Some women find relief with hormonal birth control medicines, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs) in controlling their hormonal levels to stabilise menstruation and alleviate menstrual pain. 
Heat Therapy: This can be non-medical by means of using a heating pad or warm baths, which help the muscles relax and thus alleviate the cramps.

How to Take Mefenamic Acid 500 mg? 

Timing: It should be taken with food to avoid irritation in the stomach. In case of period pain, it is normally taken at the first sign of pain or early menstruation. One should strictly follow the prescription and not exceed the dosage limits to achieve adequate relief from the pain. The medication can be effective for 6-8 hours, so plan accordingly for the duration of the pain. 
Dosage: The usually recommended dose for Mefenamic acid in the management of pain is 500 mg and can be given as frequently as three times a day. Dosage may be titrated based on individual response and medical condition but should not exceed 1500 mg per day. A physician or pharmacist should direct the dosage.
Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol use during Mefenamic acid increases the chances of stomach bleeding, dizziness, and liver damage. It is thus recommended to reduce alcohol intake or avoid it during the period that one is undergoing this medication.
Missed Dose: If you forget to take a dose of it, take it whenever you remember, provided it is close to the time you are supposed to take the next dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up with the missed one. Simply return to your usual dosing schedule. 

It contains both active and inactive ingredients for the achievement of pain relief. 

Active Ingredient: The active ingredient is Mefenamic acid, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine. It serves to reduce pain and inflammation, especially in treating period pain or dysmenorrhea. This is done through the inhibition of prostaglandin production in the body, as these are chemical substances used for causing pain and inflammation. 

Inactive Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, and sodium starch glycolate act as inactive ingredients to bind the tablet and keep it stable with easy absorption. 

Always read the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the complete list of ingredients, and to check for any you might be allergic to.

It is relatively safe if used as directed. No medication is side effect-free, though. The side effects can be mild or severe, and most of them are temporary. However, some side effects can be serious enough to warrant a visit to a doctor. 

Common Side Effects: 

Stomach Upset: It may cause indigestion, nausea, or an upset stomach. 
Diarrhoea: Some people experience loose stools. 
Dizziness: Others may feel dizzy or lightheaded when taking the medicine. 
Rash: There is a chance of a mild rash or itchiness. 

Less common but severe side effects: 

Bleeding or ulcers in the stomach: These are major side effects that include stomach ulcers or bleeding and occur more often among those who use it for an extended period. Some of the symptoms include vomiting blood or black stools. 
Kidney Problems: This may be detected because of swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs and less urine production. In severe allergic reactions, swollen face or throat, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash may occur. 
Severe Allergic Reactions: In severe allergic reactions, a swollen face or throat, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash may occur. 

Seek immediate care if you have acute, severe symptoms such as stomach bleeding, kidney problems, and an allergic reaction; this way, complications may be prevented beforehand, and your safety is guaranteed. 

Before taking Mefenamic acid, seek advice from a doctor, especially if you are suffering from an underlying medical condition or are already on other medicines. Take the medicines as prescribed, and do not take extra doses to minimise risks.