Drug interactions
Argatroban + Mefenamic acid
Severity: Major
Argatroban and Mefenamic acid: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Mefenamic acid impairs platelet function and can cause GI mucosal injury, which adds to argatroban's anticoagulant effect and raises bleeding risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Argatroban and Mefenamic acid can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Argatroban belongs to Cardiovascular; Mefenamic acid belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Additive effect of direct thrombin inhibition and NSAID-mediated platelet inhibition with mucosal injury.
What to do
Avoid concurrent NSAIDs where possible; if used, monitor aPTT and watch for signs of bleeding.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Mefenamic acid
- Ketorolac intranasal + Mefenamic acid Contraindicated
- Ketorolac + Mefenamic acid Contraindicated
- Aceclofenac + Mefenamic acid Major
- Acemetacin + Mefenamic acid Major
- Acetylsalicylic acid + Mefenamic acid Major
- Alteplase + Mefenamic acid Major
Other interactions of Argatroban
- Argatroban + Defibrotide Contraindicated
- Argatroban + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Argatroban + Mifepristone Contraindicated
- Abciximab + Argatroban Major
- Acalabrutinib + Argatroban Major
- Acetylsalicylic acid + Argatroban Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Argatroban with Mefenamic acid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Argatroban and Mefenamic acid can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Mefenamic acid impairs platelet function and can cause GI mucosal injury, which adds to argatroban's anticoagulant effect and raises bleeding risk.
How serious is the interaction between Argatroban and Mefenamic acid?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid concurrent NSAIDs where possible; if used, monitor aPTT and watch for signs of bleeding.
What other medicines interact with Mefenamic acid?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Mefenamic acid with, for example, Ketorolac intranasal, Ketorolac, Aceclofenac. The full list is on the Mefenamic acid page.
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