Drug interactions
Mefenamic acid + Salicylates
Severity: Moderate
Mefenamic acid and Salicylates: 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
Combining mefenamic acid with a non-acetylated salicylate gives duplicate NSAID-type therapy with greater risk of gastrointestinal irritation, bleeding and renal toxicity without additional benefit.
What this interaction means in plain words
Mefenamic acid and Salicylates 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 cyclooxygenase inhibition leading to reduced protective prostaglandins in the gastric mucosa and kidney.
What to do
Avoid using two NSAID-class agents together. If combined, use the lowest doses for the shortest time and monitor for GI bleeding and renal function.
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 Mefenamic acid with Salicylates?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Mefenamic acid and Salicylates 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. Combining mefenamic acid with a non-acetylated salicylate gives duplicate NSAID-type therapy with greater risk of gastrointestinal irritation, bleeding and renal toxicity without additional benefit.
How serious is the interaction between Mefenamic acid and Salicylates?
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 using two NSAID-class agents together. If combined, use the lowest doses for the shortest time and monitor for GI bleeding and renal function.
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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