Mefast 100mg.suspension

MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION

Name

Brand Name: MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION Common Name: Mefenamic Acid Oral Suspension

Composition

MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION contains Mefenamic acid at a concentration of 100 mg per 5 ml. Mefenamic acid is classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).

Uses

MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION is primarily used for the symptomatic treatment of fever and the relief of mild to moderate pain in children above six months of age. It works by blocking chemical messengers in the body that cause pain and fever.

Specific conditions it is prescribed for include:

• Fever reduction.
• Pain relief for headaches, toothaches, muscle aches, and post-operative pain.
• Managing symptoms of arthritis, muscular disorders, and other rheumatoid disorders.
• Alleviating primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps) and heavy or painful periods.
• Controlling inflammation and swelling after surgery or trauma.

Dosage and Administration

This medicine should be taken orally, preferably with or immediately after food, to help prevent stomach upset. Shake the bottle well before each use. The exact dosage and duration of treatment should be determined by a doctor based on the child's age, weight, and medical condition. Do not exceed the recommended dose. If a child vomits within 30 minutes of taking the medicine, the same dose may need to be readministered. After taking the suspension, rinsing the mouth is recommended as it contains sucrose, which may be harmful to teeth if taken for more than two weeks.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Abdominal pain, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation.
• Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
• Skin rash, itching.
• Bloating.

Serious side effects, though less common, can include:

• Abnormal liver function tests.
• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration, which can be serious, especially in elderly patients.
• Kidney problems (decreased urine output, swelling in the legs, changes in urine color).
• Liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes, abdominal pain, dark urine).
• Severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, tongue, throat; difficulty breathing; hives).
• Blood disorders like anemia.
• Fluid retention and swelling (oedema).
• Blurred vision.
• Seizures (in case of overdose).

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if allergic to mefenamic acid, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or any components of the suspension.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Use with extreme caution, or avoid, in individuals with a history of stomach or intestinal conditions such as ulcers, bleeding, severe gastritis, or inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease).
• Cardiovascular Problems: Use with caution in patients with heart diseases, hypertension, or congestive heart failure due to increased risk of adverse effects and fluid retention.
• Kidney and Liver Impairment: Not recommended for patients with severe kidney or liver diseases, and caution is advised for those with existing kidney or liver problems. Close monitoring of function is necessary.
• Asthma: Not recommended for patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma. Use with caution in other types of asthma as it may worsen the condition.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally not advised during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester, as it may affect fetal heart development, prolong labor, or increase bleeding risk. It passes into breast milk, so caution is advised, and it should not be taken by breastfeeding women.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and liver problems.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products being taken. Interactions can occur with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), potentially increasing the risk of bleeding or gastrointestinal side effects.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances, so caution is advised.
• Dengue/COVID-19: Not recommended for fever associated with dengue due to interference with blood clotting, or for COVID-19 as safety is not established.

Storage

Store MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach and sight of children. The ideal storage temperature is between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. Keep the bottle tightly sealed.

Here are some frequently asked questions about MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION:

What is MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION used for?

MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief, fever reduction, and to alleviate inflammation. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as headaches, muscular pain, toothache, menstrual pain (primary dysmenorrhoea), and pain associated with arthritis, sprains, strains, injuries, and post-operative or post-partum recovery. It is primarily intended for children, but adults may take it under a doctor's guidance.

How does MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION work?

This medicine contains Mefenamic acid, which functions by inhibiting specific enzymes (cyclooxygenase enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2) in the body. By doing so, it reduces the production of chemical messengers called prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing pain, fever, and inflammation.

What is the usual dosage of MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION?

The exact dosage of MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION should be determined by a doctor, as it depends on the patient's age, weight, and the severity of their condition. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dose, frequency, and duration. Generally, it should be taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. For children, it may be given up to three times a day. Always shake the bottle well before use and take the suspension with or immediately after a meal to prevent stomach upset. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

What are the possible side effects of MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION?

Common side effects may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and skin rash. More serious but less common side effects can include stomach or intestinal bleeding (which can be fatal, especially in elderly patients), blood disorders, severe allergic reactions, kidney problems, or worsening of existing heart conditions. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, seek medical attention.

Is MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the last three months, as it can potentially harm the unborn baby, delay labor, and increase the risk of bleeding. If used from 20 weeks of pregnancy onward, it can cause kidney problems in the unborn baby. It passes into breast milk in small amounts, so it is generally advised that nursing mothers avoid it. A doctor may prescribe a safer alternative or advise discontinuing breastfeeding if its use is considered absolutely necessary.

Can MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION be taken with other medications?

MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION can interact with various other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Significant interactions can occur with blood thinners (anticoagulants like warfarin), lithium, other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, anti-platelet drugs (like aspirin), certain antidepressants, and medicines for high blood pressure or heart problems. Combining it with some drugs can increase the risk of side effects like bleeding or kidney damage.

What precautions should be taken while using MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION?

Avoid alcohol and smoking while taking this medicine, as they can irritate the stomach and worsen side effects. It should not be used if you have a known allergy to mefenamic acid, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, or if you have severe kidney, liver, or heart problems, active ulcers, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Caution is advised for patients with a history of asthma, heart conditions, fluid retention, or inflammatory bowel diseases. Due to potential dizziness or drowsiness, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. This medicine is not recommended for children under 6 months of age.

What happens if a dose of MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

How should MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION be stored?

MEFAST 100MG.SUSPENSION should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct heat and sunlight. Ensure the bottle is tightly sealed and kept out of the reach and sight of children. It is generally recommended to store it at room temperature, typically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.