Side Effects of Mefenamic Acid

Common side effects of mefenamic acid may include swelling, increased liver enzymes, and gas. There are also some rare but possible side effects that occur in less than 1 percent of patients, including: bladder infection, spinning sensation, congestive heart failure, and high blood pressure. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience an allergic reaction, stomach or intestine problems, or unexplained weight gain.

 

Side Effects of Mefenamic Acid: An Overview

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with mefenamic acid (Ponstel®). However, not everyone who takes mefenamic acid will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate mefenamic acid well. When side effects do occur, they are generally minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
There are also several factors that seem to affect the chances of developing side effects, including a person's:
 
  • Dosage of mefenamic acid
  • Age
  • Other medical conditions
  • Current medicines.
     
(The mefenamic acid side effects discussed below are not a complete list of side effects reported with this drug. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Mefenamic Acid

Mefenamic acid has been studied in clinical trials, with many people having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects are always documented and compared to those that occur in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. Based on these studies, the most common mefenamic acid side effects include:
 
  • Stomach pain
  • Indigestion or heartburn (dyspepsia)
  • Nausea with or without vomiting
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Ulcer in the stomach or intestines (peptic ulcer)
  • High liver enzymes
  • Unexplained rash
  • Unexplained bleeding
  • Anemia
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Itching
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Swelling.
     
(Side Effects of Mefenamic Acid Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;