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Drug interactions

Mefenamic acid + Sacubitril / valsartan

Severity: Moderate

Mefenamic acid and Sacubitril / valsartan: 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

NSAIDs can worsen renal function in patients taking sacubitril/valsartan, especially in elderly, volume-depleted or renally impaired patients. They may also reduce the blood pressure lowering effect and contribute to hyperkalemia.

What this interaction means in plain words

Mefenamic acid and Sacubitril / valsartan 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.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandins reduces afferent arteriolar dilation and promotes sodium retention, adding to angiotensin receptor blockade effects on glomerular filtration and potassium excretion.

What to do

Avoid regular NSAID use where possible and ensure adequate hydration. Monitor serum creatinine, potassium and blood pressure if the combination is needed.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Mefenamic acid with Sacubitril / valsartan?

MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Mefenamic acid and Sacubitril / valsartan 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. NSAIDs can worsen renal function in patients taking sacubitril/valsartan, especially in elderly, volume-depleted or renally impaired patients. They may also reduce the blood pressure lowering effect and contribute to hyperkalemia.

How serious is the interaction between Mefenamic acid and Sacubitril / valsartan?

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 regular NSAID use where possible and ensure adequate hydration. Monitor serum creatinine, potassium and blood pressure if the combination is needed.

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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