Side effects of mefenamic acid

Mefenamic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug which is usually used orally for relieving severe menstrual pain. This medication reduces inflammation (swelling) and uterine contractions by preventing the secretion of prostaglandin.

Mefenamic acid has many side effects that can negatively affect on all parts of human body.

In general, adverse effects of Mefenamic acid include appearance of edema, tinnitus, fever, inflammation and sepsis. Also, in very rare cases deafness and death have been recorded.

As far as the gastrointestinal tract usually occur are: nausea and vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, stomach and duodenum ulcer. Also, cases of tongue, esophagus and stomach inflammation, rectal bleeding, melena and hematemesis have been reported. Inflammation of the pancreas, appetite disorder and eructation occur very rarely.

As a consequence of using Mefenamic acid there is a possibility for occurrence of certain cardiovascular disorders such as: Irregular heartbeat (rapidly, stopping, skip beating, arrhythmias), high and low blood pressure, occasional temporary loss of consciousness, congestive heart failure, dying part of the heart muscle due to sudden cessation of circulation through some of the arteries that feed the heart, dying of blood vessels. Hematological problems that may arise are: anemia, extended bleeding, high levels of granulocytes, subcutaneous hematoma, low levels of white blood cells, purpura, low platelets level.Also, in rare cases appear are an abnormal decrease in white and red blood cells, lack of hemoglobin in the blood and swollen lymph nodes.

Mefenamic acid may cause certain metabolic disorders such as elevated blood sugar and weight gain.

Mefenamic acid negative effects on the nervous system are reflected in the occurrence of dizziness, migraine, confusion, fatigue, disorders of sleep, feeling of paresthesia, tingling and tickling and muscle tremors. Uncontrolled tremors, hallucinations, meningitis and coma occur rarely.

Respiratory problems that may appear using mefenemic acid include asthma, respiratory distress, shortness of breath, hyperventilation and pneumonia.

Negative effects of Mefenamic acid on the skin include sensitivity, rash, itching and hair loss. Also, rarely occurs is subcutaneous swelling, peeling skin, inflamed symmetrically arranged concentric lesions, redness and desquamation of the skin, Stevens-Johnson syndrome and hives.

Mefenamic acid should not be used in case of liver disease because it can cause hepatitis, jaundice, increased levels of liver enzymes or even liver failure.

Also, Mefenamic acid can cause blurred vision and conjunctivitis.

This acid can adversely affect the genitourinary tract. Mainly appears are cystitis, difficult and painful urination, blood in urine, inflammation of the kidneys, decrease or increase urine production and excess serum protein in the urine.

Renal side effects include abnormal disturbances in the kidneys functioning and their failure.

Mefenamic acid may cause some psychological problems such as depression, tension, tightness, sleep disturbances and nervousness.

In the case of hypersensitivity to Mefenamic acid can appear an allergic reaction (rash, itching, difficulty with breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the tongue, lips or face) and anaphylactic shock.