meclofenamate (Meclomen)

Meclofenamate sodium is indicated for the relief of mild to moderate pain.

Meclofenamate sodium is also indicated for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea (menopause) and for the treatment of idiopathic heavy menstrual blood loss.

Meclofenamate sodium is also indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of acute and chronic rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. As with all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, selection of meclofenamate sodium requires a careful assessment of the benefit/risk ratio.

Meclofenamate sodium is not recommended in children because adequate studies to demonstrate safety and efficacy have not been carried out.

Is meclofenamate available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for meclofenamate?

Yes

The most common side effects are:

• abdominal pain with cramps,
• allergic reactions,
• diarrhea,
• dizziness,
• headache,
• heartburn, nausea, and
• skin rash.

It is important to note that people who take NSAIDs such as meclofenamate may have a higher risk of having a heart attack or a stroke than people who do not take these medications. Meclofenamate may cause ulcers, bleeding, or holes in the stomach or intestine. The risk may be higher for people who take NSAIDs for a longer period of time, are older in age, have poor health, or drink large amounts of alcohol.

If patients experience any of the following symptoms they should stop taking meclofenamate and call their doctor:

• stomach pain,
• heartburn,
• vomiting a substance that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds,
• blood in the stool, or
• black and tarry stools.

nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain and inflammation. Other NSAIDS include:

• ibuprofen,(Motrin),
• indomethacin (Indocin),
• naproxen (Naprosyn,
• Aleve,
• Anaprox,
• Naprelan),
• nabumetone

(Relafen) and several others. These drugs are used for the management of mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation. They work by reducing the levels of prostaglandins, chemicals that are responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation. Meclofenamate blocks the enzymes that make prostaglandins (cyclooxygenases), resulting in lower concentrations of prostaglandins. As a consequence, inflammation, pain, and fever are reduced. Meclofenamate was approved by the FDA in June 1980.

The usual dose for mild to moderate pain is 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours.

For excessive menstrual blood loss and primary dysmenorrhea the usual dose is 100 mg three times a day, for up to six days. The maximum dose is 300 mg daily.

For rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis the usual dose is 50 to 100 mg 3 to 4 times a day. The maximum dose is 400 mg daily.

Concurrent use of meclofenamate and warfarin (Coumadin), a blood thinner, may cause excessive bleeding as meclofenamate enhances the effect of warfarin. It is important, therefore, to reduce the dosage of warfarin.

Meclofenamate, as other NSAIDS may reduce the effects of blood pressure-lowering medications. This may occur because prostaglandins are important in the regulation of blood pressure.

Concurrent use of meclofenamate and cyclosporine (Sandimmune), an immunosuppressant, can increase the risk of kidney damage (nephrotoxicity), as meclofenamate tends to increase cyclosporine-induced kidney damage by blocking certain prostaglandins that are important in preventing toxic effects on the kidney. It is important, therefore, to avoid this combination and/or monitor kidney function and blood pressure.

Persons who have more than three alcoholic beverages per day may be at increased risk of developing stomach ulcers when taking meclofenamate or other NSAIDs.

What preparations of meclofenamate are available?

Capsules: 50 and 100 mg.

How should I keep meclofenamate stored?

Meclofenamate should be stored at 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F) in a sealed container protected from light and moisture.