Meftagesic-P

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Meftagesic-P

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Meftagesic-P

Property Description
Active Ingredients Mefenamic Acid and Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)
Form Oral dosage forms (Tablet, Capsule, Suspension)
Pharmacological Class Fixed-Dose Combination (NSAID + Analgesic-Antipyretic)
Common Use Symptomatic relief of Pain, Inflammation, and Fever
Origin Synthetic

What is the Pharmacological Class of Meftagesic-P?

Meftagesic-P is defined as a fixed-dose combination product containing two distinct synthetic active ingredients: Mefenamic Acid and Acetaminophen (Paracetamol). This medicine is a systemic preparation, designed to act throughout the body after being administered via the oral route. It is classified as combining a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) with an Analgesic-Antipyretic. This combination approach is clinically recognized for providing comprehensive relief by targeting different biological pathways simultaneously. Meftagesic-P is a brand often associated with formulations popular in the Indian subcontinent, where such fixed-dose combinations are widely accessible.


Meftagesic-P: Composition and Origin

The core composition includes Mefenamic Acid, which is an anthranilic acid derivative, and Acetaminophen, belonging to the para-aminophenol class. This dual composition targets symptoms where both anti-inflammatory action and central pain relief are desired. The drug is typically available in a suspension form for the pediatric patient group and a tablet form for adults. The final pharmaceutical form contains these active agents combined with necessary pharmaceutical excipients and fillers to create stable oral dosage forms.


What is the General Therapeutic Purpose of this Combination Drug?

The general therapeutic purpose of this combination drug is to provide effective, simultaneous relief from the symptoms of pain, inflammation, and fever (pyrexia). A typical use scenario involves managing acute musculoskeletal discomfort or elevated body temperature. The benefit of the dual-agent strategy is its ability to offer a broader management approach to discomfort by addressing both the inflammatory process and the body's central pain and temperature mechanisms concurrently. This is a robust strategy for symptomatic control.

Regulatory References

  1. Mefenamic Acid DailyMed Label

What side effects are possible with Meftagesic-P?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

This section describes the officially documented adverse reactions and safety characteristics associated with this combination drug, based on government regulatory documentation for Mefenamic Acid and Acetaminophen (Paracetamol).


Adverse Reaction Scope and Classification

The safety profile is formally structured around System-Organ-Classes and Frequency.

Classification Examples of Officially Listed Adverse Reactions
Common Gastrointestinal Disorders (diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting), Nervous System Effects (headache, dizziness, drowsiness).
System-Organ Classes Effects documented across Gastrointestinal, Cardiac, Hepatobiliary, Renal, Skin, and Nervous Systems.

Serious Adverse Reactions

Regulatory agencies document the potential for rare but serious adverse reactions, which may be fatal. These include the major systemic risks associated with the components:

  • Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events: Increased risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke officially associated with the NSAID component.
  • Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation: Risk of serious events, which can occur at any time during treatment, often without warning symptoms.
  • Severe Hepatotoxicity (Liver Failure): Potential for severe liver injury associated with the Acetaminophen component, particularly when maximum dosage limits are exceeded.
  • Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCAR): Rare but serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

Population-Specific Safety Considerations and Restrictions

Official labeling defines specific safety constraints and high-risk populations. Older adults are documented to be at a greater risk for serious gastrointestinal events. The NSAID component is officially not recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy. Furthermore, use is contraindicated in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery and restricted in patients with severe heart, renal, or hepatic failure.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official overdose profile for this combination (Mefenamic Acid and Acetaminophen) is defined by the severe toxicological risks of each component, necessitating urgent medical intervention.


Documented Overdose Manifestations

Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, lethargy, drowsiness, and epigastric pain. Severe manifestations associated with Mefenamic Acid overdose can include seizures, acute renal failure, and coma. Symptoms of Acetaminophen overdose may initially be non-specific or delayed, but can progress to signs of liver failure (hepatotoxicity).

When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

Seek medical help or contact Poison Help right away for any suspected or confirmed overdose. Immediate medical attention is required for the onset of any severe symptoms or the risk of life-threatening acute liver failure from the Acetaminophen component.

Management is symptomatic and supportive. For Acetaminophen toxicity, the documented antidote, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), is required. Mefenamic Acid overdose has no specific antidote, and management focuses on supportive care and the potential for gastric decontamination procedures, such as activated charcoal, if warranted by the timing of ingestion. Patients with pre-existing renal or hepatic impairment have officially documented risks for increased toxicity following overdose.

Therapeutic Uses of Meftagesic-P

What Meftagesic-P Treats: Main Uses and Benefits


The core therapeutic role of this combination is in providing symptomatic support by addressing pain, inflammation, and fever, aligning with the general therapeutic classification of its primary ingredients. This medicine is relevant across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed in situations involving certain distressing symptoms.

Meftagesic-P is generally used in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, and may assist with managing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. It is commonly used to help with conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort, including acute musculoskeletal aches, headache, dental pain, and the episodic pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps). The combination is considered relevant for easing symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states, such as those associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

This supportive action helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable, assisting with maintaining functional stability and contributing to easing the overall symptom load.


Quick Fact: Relief for Acute and Episodic Discomfort

The combination is applied in scenarios where additional management of discomfort is required, assisting with maintaining comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview of Mefenamic Acid

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Meftagesic-P?

Eligibility for Mefenamic Acid and Acetaminophen combination products is governed by strict rules, primarily related to the presence of the NSAID component, Mefenamic Acid.

Contraindicated Populations

This medicine must not be used by patients with:

  • Hypersensitivity (allergic reactions) to Mefenamic Acid, Acetaminophen, Aspirin, or other NSAIDs that result in bronchospasm or urticaria.
  • Active ulceration or chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Severe Heart Failure, Severe Hepatic Failure, or Severe Renal Failure.
  • Treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.
  • Women who are 30 weeks gestation or later (third trimester of pregnancy).

Age and Conditional Use

Population Group Official Regulatory Status
Pediatric Patients Not adequately established in patients below 14 years of age for certain uses.
Older Adults Requires caution and close monitoring due to increased risk of serious adverse reactions, particularly GI events.
Pregnancy/Lactation Avoidance recommended between 20 and 30 weeks gestation. For lactation, a decision must be made to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug.
Organ Impairment Non-severe renal or liver impairment requires caution, monitoring, and dose adjustment.

The regulatory profile is based on excluding populations with known risk factors, particularly concerning the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems, as defined in government-approved prescribing information.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section summarizes officially documented medicinal and non-medicinal product interactions for the combination of mefenamic acid and paracetamol, based on regulatory labeling.

Pharmacodynamic and Pharmacokinetic Interactions

Interacting Product Category Regulatory Statement (Constraint/Effect)
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) Co-administration increases the risk of bleeding; necessitates careful and continuous monitoring of coagulation parameters.
Other NSAIDs/Aspirin Co-administration is advised to be avoided due to increased risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding.
Diuretics and Antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors) May decrease the intended blood pressure-lowering effect; requires monitoring of renal function and blood pressure.
Lithium Leads to elevated plasma Lithium levels due to reduced renal clearance.
Methotrexate May increase plasma levels of Methotrexate, requiring monitoring for toxicity.
Antacids (containing magnesium hydroxide) May significantly increase the rate and extent of mefenamic acid absorption.
Cholestyramine Reduces the absorption of both paracetamol and mefenamic acid. Temporal separation of administration is required.
Mifepristone Should not be taken for 8 to 12 days after Mifepristone administration to avoid interference with its effect.

Other Constraints

Use with other systemic non-aspirin NSAIDs is not recommended. If the drug is used concurrently with an anticoagulant, continuous monitoring of prothrombin and coagulation factors is required. Alcohol consumption should be avoided or limited due to increased risk of stomach bleeding and liver injury. The medicine may cause interference with certain laboratory tests, specifically a false positive reaction in the Diazo test for urinary bile.

Mechanism of Action

Meftagesic-P contains two active molecular entities: mefenamic acid and paracetamol.

Mefenamic acid acts as a non-selective inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2. This molecular interaction occurs primarily in peripheral tissues, blocking the enzymatic conversion of arachidonic acid into prostanoids, including prostaglandins. The downstream cascade involves a reduction in the synthesis and local concentration of these lipid mediators. System-level physiological consequences include the modulation of peripheral afferent nociceptor sensitization and the modification of localized vascular responses.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) acts predominantly within the central nervous system (CNS). Its interaction mechanism is believed to involve the inhibition of central prostaglandin synthesis, possibly by acting on a specialized COX splice variant, such as COX-3, or by targeting COX in a high-peroxide environment. Furthermore, paracetamol may exert a modulating influence on endogenous cannabinoid pathways by affecting the hydrolysis of anandamide. The intracellular consequence is the diminished central signaling mediated by prostanoids, leading to system-level modulation of the thermoregulatory center in the hypothalamus and central pain processing pathways.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Meftagesic-P

This section outlines the general principles for administering Meftagesic-P, a fixed-dose combination of Mefenamic Acid and Acetaminophen (Paracetamol).


Official Administration Guidelines

The standard protocol for this combination is based on the Mefenamic Acid component, emphasizing short-term, intermittent usage.

Feature Official Guideline
Route of Administration Oral route only (tablet, capsule, or suspension form).
Adult Dosing Pattern An initial 500 mg loading dose (Mefenamic Acid equivalent) is followed by a 250 mg maintenance dose.
Frequency Dosing is typically every 6 hours (four times daily), taken only as needed for symptoms.
With or Without Food Should be administered with food or milk to reduce the potential for gastrointestinal irritation.

Duration and Special Populations

Treatment must adhere to strict time limitations, and specific patient groups require caution in administration.

Feature Official Use Constraints
Duration Limit (Pain) Treatment must not exceed 7 days for general pain relief.
Duration Limit (Dysmenorrhea) Treatment must not exceed 2 to 3 days for menstrual pain.
Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness for pain relief are not established in children younger than 14 years. Suspension forms exist in some regions for younger children, requiring weight-based dosing.
Missed Dose Rule If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered unless the next dose is due; do not double the dose.

The overall use protocol requires the lowest effective dose be used for the shortest possible duration. The use of this fixed combination is strictly constrained to this short-term, intermittent schedule.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence Landscape

The research base for this fixed-dose combination of Mefenamic Acid and Acetaminophen consists primarily of Short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Systematic Reviews. These studies explore the use of the drug components for the management of acute pain, including discomfort from dental procedures and musculoskeletal aches, and for episodic conditions like primary dysmenorrhea. Researchers monitored changes in pain intensity scores and the time necessary to achieve relief. Findings describe patterns related to pain score changes, particularly for the Mefenamic Acid component.

Comparative Studies for Fever (Pyrexia)

The medicine was studied for its use in managing fever (pyrexia). Comparative RCTs have observed the components against other fever-reducing medications, often focusing on pediatric patients. Studies monitored physiological strain by measuring the magnitude and speed of core body temperature reduction. Research describes that the Mefenamic Acid component was associated with observed patterns in the speed of temperature reduction in some studies when compared to standard Acetaminophen doses.

Research Uncertainty and Limitations

Comparative evidence directly testing the fixed-dose combination against a placebo or other active agents in large, long-term trials is lacking. Research for certain groups, particularly long-term effects in children, remains insufficient. Overall, evidence quality varies across studies, and subgroup findings are often uncertain due to modest sample sizes. Therefore, research is ongoing to fully characterize the specific therapeutic contribution of the combined agents.

Key Studies & References

  1. The Antipyretic Effect of High-Dose Paracetamol Versus Mefenamic Acid in the Treatment of Febrile Children: A Randomized Control Trial
  2. Benefits and harms associated with analgesic medications used in the management of acute dental pain: An overview of systematic reviews
  3. Oral Analgesics for Acute Dental Pain (ADA Guideline Summary)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Meftagesic-P (FAQ)


Q: Is it okay to take Meftagesic-P while I am taking other regular medications?

Official information indicates that Meftagesic-P may interact with several important drug classes, such as blood thinners (anticoagulants), diuretics, and certain mental health medications (like lithium). Regulatory information suggests the need for consultation with a healthcare professional regarding concurrent use with any regular medication.


Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that interact with Meftagesic-P?

Regulatory documents list specific non-medicinal products that interact with the drug. These include antacids containing magnesium hydroxide, which can increase the absorption of the mefenamic acid component, and Cholestyramine, which can reduce the absorption of both components. Other food or common drink interactions are not typically listed in official product information.


Q: What are the official guidelines regarding using Meftagesic-P with alcohol?

Official guidelines indicate that alcohol consumption is advised to be avoided or limited while using this medicine. This is because alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding associated with the NSAID component and heighten the potential for liver injury associated with the acetaminophen component.


Q: Can I take Meftagesic-P if I have kidney problems?

Regulatory documents state that this medicine is contraindicated (use is restricted) in patients with severe kidney disease or significantly impaired renal function. Patients with non-severe kidney impairment are subject to cautions and monitoring according to official documentation.


Q: Is Meftagesic-P suitable for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Use is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy (after 30 weeks gestation) due to potential risks to the fetus. The label advises caution and monitoring between 20 and 30 weeks gestation. For breastfeeding, the label indicates a decision is needed concerning discontinuing nursing or discontinuing the drug.


Q: What should I know about taking Meftagesic-P if I have a history of allergies?

The medicine is contraindicated, meaning its use is restricted, in patients with a history of known hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to mefenamic acid, acetaminophen, aspirin, or any other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).


Q: Is Meftagesic-P a type of painkiller or is it for fever?

Meftagesic-P is defined as a fixed-dose combination product designed to address both symptoms simultaneously. It contains an analgesic and antipyretic component for pain relief and fever reduction.


Q: Does Meftagesic-P make you feel sleepy or drowsy?

Drowsiness and dizziness are listed in regulatory documents as possible adverse reactions associated with the use of the medicine. The frequency of these effects is documented as common in regulatory safety profiles.


Q: Does Meftagesic-P help with muscle pain relief?

The therapeutic purpose of the drug is for the symptomatic relief of pain. Research has explored its use for general pain and discomfort, including musculoskeletal aches.


Q: Is it normal to feel a mild headache after taking Meftagesic-P?

Headache is listed in regulatory safety documents as a common adverse reaction associated with the medicine. This indicates that it is an effect frequently noted in official safety information.


Q: Can Meftagesic-P cause difficulty sleeping?

Adverse reactions documented in regulatory sources include central nervous system effects such as nervousness and drowsiness. These effects documented in regulatory sources may potentially impact normal sleep patterns.


Q: Is it true that Meftagesic-P is only available by prescription?

The prescription-only status of this medicine varies by region and specific formulation. In many major regulatory jurisdictions, the mefenamic acid component is designated as a prescription-only drug.


Q: Does Meftagesic-P have a potential for causing skin reactions?

The medicine has the potential to cause both common skin adverse reactions, such as a rash, and rare but serious skin reactions. Regulatory documents specify the potential for Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCAR) like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), which are associated with both active components.


Q: Does Meftagesic-P contain any narcotics or addictive substances?

The components of Meftagesic-P are classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and an analgesic-antipyretic. Official information indicates that these drug classes are not associated with narcotics, controlled substances, or a potential for addiction.


Q: Does Meftagesic-P affect blood pressure levels?

Regulatory documents state that the medicine may be associated with an increase in blood pressure and may worsen pre-existing high blood pressure (hypertension). Monitoring of blood pressure is indicated in regulatory documents when taking this medication.


Q: Does Meftagesic-P contain aspirin or related compounds?

The active components are mefenamic acid and acetaminophen; it does not contain aspirin. However, the regulatory label contraindicates its use in patients with a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs.


Q: Does the package insert for Meftagesic-P list any warnings about driving or operating machinery?

Because the medicine may cause adverse reactions like dizziness and drowsiness, regulatory information mentions caution for activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.


Q: Is there a potential for addiction with Meftagesic-P?

Official information classifies the components as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and an analgesic-antipyretic. These drug classes are not associated with a potential for addiction.


Q: Are generic versions of Meftagesic-P considered the same as the brand name?

Regulatory bodies generally establish that generic products containing the same active ingredients, dosage form, strength, and route of administration are comparable to the brand-name product if they meet strict standards for quality and bioequivalence.


Q: Does Meftagesic-P contain gluten or lactose?

The composition of inactive ingredients, such as lactose or gluten, can vary between different formulations and manufacturers. Reviewing the specific product label or package insert is necessary to confirm the presence of these excipients (inactive ingredients).


Q: Can Meftagesic-P cause or worsen dehydration?

Regulatory information advises that the medicine should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing conditions like dehydration or low blood volume. This caution is due to the potential for kidney-related adverse effects associated with the NSAID component.


Q: Is Meftagesic-P used for common cold or flu symptoms?

The therapeutic purpose of the drug is the symptomatic relief of pain and fever (pyrexia). These symptoms may be associated with common cold or flu-like conditions, and the drug is used to manage those specific symptoms.


Q: Are there any known effects of Meftagesic-P on fertility?

Regulatory documents indicate that the NSAID component (Mefenamic Acid) may cause a delay or prevention of ovarian follicle rupture. This effect has been associated with impaired female fertility.


Q: What kind of research has been done on Meftagesic-P in pediatric populations?

Research has included Comparative Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) focusing on the use of the drug's components in pediatric patients for managing fever (pyrexia). These studies typically explore patterns related to core body temperature reduction.


Q: What is the scientific classification of the two components in Meftagesic-P?

The two active components are classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) (Mefenamic Acid, an anthranilic acid derivative) and an Analgesic-Antipyretic (Acetaminophen, a para-aminophenol class derivative).

How should Meftagesic-P be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Meftagesic-P

The storage and disposal of Meftagesic-P (Mefenamic Acid and Paracetamol) must strictly follow the conditions specified in official regulatory labeling to maintain stability and prevent environmental contamination.


Storage Requirements

Condition Regulatory Rule
Temperature Store at or below 30 C; avoid excessive heat.
Protection Protect from light and moisture; store in a dry location.
Container Keep in the original, tightly closed container; do not use past the expiry date.
Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children at all times.

Disposal Instructions

Expired or unused Meftagesic-P must be disposed of according to local pharmaceutical waste regulations. To prevent environmental harm, do not throw away medicines via household waste or flush down a toilet or drain unless specifically instructed by local authorities.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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