Drug interactions
Aspirin rectal + Mefenamic acid
Severity: Moderate
Aspirin rectal and Mefenamic acid: moderate interaction.
Last updated
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
Rectal aspirin is absorbed systemically, so combining it with mefenamic acid increases the risk of gastrointestinal and other bleeding. Mefenamic acid may also blunt aspirin's antiplatelet effect.
What this interaction means in plain words
Aspirin rectal and Mefenamic acid can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Additive inhibition of platelet function and gastric mucosal prostaglandin synthesis, plus possible competition at platelet COX-1.
What to do
Avoid combined use where possible; otherwise use gastroprotection and monitor for signs of bleeding.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Aspirin rectal with Mefenamic acid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Aspirin rectal and Mefenamic acid can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Rectal aspirin is absorbed systemically, so combining it with mefenamic acid increases the risk of gastrointestinal and other bleeding. Mefenamic acid may also blunt aspirin's antiplatelet effect.
How serious is the interaction between Aspirin rectal and Mefenamic acid?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combined use where possible; otherwise use gastroprotection and monitor 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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