Medications and Drugs
Pharmacy Author: Annette Gbemudu-Ogbru, PharmD, MBA
Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD
GENERIC NAME: meclofenamate
BRAND NAME: Meclomen, Meclodium (These brands no longer are available in the
U.S.)
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Meclofenamate belongs to a class of drugs called
nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). 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.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Capsules: 50 and 100 mg.
STORAGE: Meclofenamate should be stored at 20 to 25 C (68 to 77 F) in a
sealed container protected from light and moisture.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Meclofenamate is used for the relief of mild to moderate
pain. It also is used to treat dysmenorrhea (painful periods), idiopathic heavy
menstrual blood loss, and relief of the signs and symptoms of acute and chronic
rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Off label uses include
ankylosing
spondylitis (arthritis that mainly affects the spine) and vascular headache.
DOSING: The usual dose for mild to moderate pain is 50 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.
For rheumatoid arthritis and
osteoarthritis the usual dose is 200 to 400 mg per day.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: 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 nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), 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.
PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies in pregnant women and, therefore,
meclofenamate is not recommended for use during
pregnancy.
NURSING MOTHERS: Meclofenamate is excreted in
breast milk. Due to possible
adverse effects, it is not recommended for nursing women.
SIDE EFFECTS: 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.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 10/12/2009
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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