Drug interactions
Celecoxib + Mefenamic acid
Severity: Major
Celecoxib 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
Taking two NSAIDs together provides no added analgesic benefit and increases gastrointestinal, renal, cardiovascular and bleeding risks.
What this interaction means in plain words
Celecoxib 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.
Celecoxib belongs to Musculoskeletal; Mefenamic acid belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Duplicate cyclooxygenase inhibition causing additive mucosal injury, renal prostaglandin suppression and platelet effects.
What to do
Avoid combining the two and keep a single NSAID at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.
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 Celecoxib
- Celecoxib + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Celecoxib + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Aceclofenac + Celecoxib Major
- Acemetacin + Celecoxib Major
- Amiloride + Celecoxib Major
- Apixaban + Celecoxib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Celecoxib with Mefenamic acid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Celecoxib 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. Taking two NSAIDs together provides no added analgesic benefit and increases gastrointestinal, renal, cardiovascular and bleeding risks.
How serious is the interaction between Celecoxib 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 combining the two and keep a single NSAID at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.
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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