Drug interactions
Mefenamic acid + Parecoxib
Severity: Major
Mefenamic acid and Parecoxib: major 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 are NSAIDs, so combining them duplicates therapy and increases the risk of GI bleeding, renal impairment, fluid retention and hyperkalemia without added benefit. Parecoxib is converted to valdecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor.
What this interaction means in plain words
Mefenamic acid and Parecoxib 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.
Why it happens
Duplicate cyclooxygenase inhibition producing additive adverse effects on GI mucosa, platelets and kidney.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use of two NSAIDs; use a single agent at the lowest effective dose.
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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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 Mefenamic acid with Parecoxib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Mefenamic acid and Parecoxib 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. Both are NSAIDs, so combining them duplicates therapy and increases the risk of GI bleeding, renal impairment, fluid retention and hyperkalemia without added benefit. Parecoxib is converted to valdecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor.
How serious is the interaction between Mefenamic acid and Parecoxib?
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 use of two NSAIDs; use a single agent at the lowest effective dose.
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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