Gardan™
[Mefenamic Acid]
Active Ingredients
Description / Properties
Mefenamic acid has demonstrated analgesic, antipyretic and anti-¬inflammatory effects. In tests of analgesia, it displays a central as well as a peripheral action. These actions appear to be via inhibition of prostaglandin-forming cyclo-oxygenase. Following a single oral dose, mefenamic acid is fairly rapidly absorbed. Peak concentrations in blood plasma are observed at 2 to 4 hours after ingestion. Approximately 50 % of dose of the drug is excreted in the urine as conjugated metabolites; about 20% is recovered in the feces during the first three days after administration.
Indications
Gardan, brand of mefenamic acid, is indicated for the relief of mild to moderate pain arising from rheumatoid arthritis (including Still's disease), Soft tissue injuries, other painful musculoskeletal conditions, headache, dental pain, post-operative pain and Dysmenorrhoea.
Contraindication
Gardan is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid, in patients with active peptic ulcer or inflammatory bowel disease, and in patients with hepatic and renal impairment. Cross sensitivity with aspirin and other NSAIDs may occur and elicit allergic symptoms such as bronchoconstriction.
Side Effects
The most common side effects involve the gastrointestinal system, in the form of dyspepsia, upper GIT discomfort, diarrhea or constipation, and abdominal pain. Other reactions noted less frequently include transient abnormalities of hepatic or renal function, CNS effects including headache, drowsiness, nervousness and visual disturbances, skin rashes and urticaria. Allergic glomerulonephritis known to be associated with prostaglandin inhibitors and reversible non-oliguríc renal failure has been reported. A positive test for bile in urine of patients receiving mefenamic acid is not due to the presence of bile, but due to the presence of the drug and its metabolites in urine. Hematological effects noted with long-term treatment include hemolytic anaemia, agranulocytosis, pancytopenia, thrombocytopenia or thrombocytopenic purpura, and bone marrow aplasia.
Warning and Precautions
Treatment with mefenamic acid should not be continued longer than seven days. Mefenamic acid is not recommended for use in children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. It should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal and liver function. Concomitant therapy with plasma protein binding drugs may require modification in dosage. If anticoagulants are being administered, the dose may need to be reduced. If skin rash, diarrhea or other significant gastrointestinal discomfort occurs, Gardan should be discontinued and consultation with physician is advised.n
Dosage
Adults and children over 12 years: 1 tablet (500 mg) initial dose followed by half tablet every six hours as needed (not to be given for longer than 7 days). Preferably administered with food.
Children: 6 months and older 6.5 mg/kg of body weight given 3 times a day.
Overdosage: In case of overdose gastric lavage should be performed in a conscious patient. Intensive supportive therapy should be initiated, if necessary.
Presentations Available
Gardan tablets containing 250mg mefenamic acid and 500mg mefenamic acid. Carton of 200 tablets in blister strips.
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