Drug interactions
Cephalexin + Mefenamic acid
Severity: Minor
Cephalexin and Mefenamic acid: minor 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
Both drugs are organic acids secreted by renal tubular anion transporters, so they could compete for elimination. Any rise in mefenamic acid exposure is expected to be small and is rarely of clinical significance.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cephalexin and Mefenamic acid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Possible competition for renal tubular secretion via organic anion transporters.
What to do
No routine action is needed; watch for increased NSAID adverse effects (GI upset, renal effects) only in patients with renal impairment.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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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 Cephalexin with Mefenamic acid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cephalexin and Mefenamic acid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Both drugs are organic acids secreted by renal tubular anion transporters, so they could compete for elimination. Any rise in mefenamic acid exposure is expected to be small and is rarely of clinical significance.
How serious is the interaction between Cephalexin and Mefenamic acid?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine action is needed; watch for increased NSAID adverse effects (GI upset, renal effects) only in patients with renal impairment.
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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