Menotran

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Menotran

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

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 Menotran

Property Description
Active Ingredients Mefenamic Acid, Tranexamic Acid
Form Tablet
Pharmacological Class NSAID and Antifibrinolytic agent (Combination)
General Purpose Managing pain/inflammation and excessive bleeding
Origin Synthetic

Menotran is defined as a fixed-dose combination product designed for oral administration, composed of two distinct synthetic active substances that target complementary physiological processes in the body. It is classified pharmacologically as a blend of a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and an Antifibrinolytic agent. This formulation represents a medically recognized strategy to manage conditions requiring both symptomatic relief and a specific modification of the blood clotting cascade. The medication is primarily positioned for use by women of reproductive age where its dual action provides an essential differentiating factor compared to single-agent treatments.

What Type of Medicine is Menotran?

Menotran is a combination medicine that unites two agents from different pharmacological groups into a single tablet to achieve a synergistic therapeutic effect. Both of its active compounds, Mefenamic Acid and Tranexamic Acid, are synthetic in origin, developed to provide targeted actions against specific mediators of pain and the processes of blood clot breakdown. Mefenamic Acid's primary function is to suppress the production of inflammation-causing substances. This means one part of the medication helps reduce pain and swelling in the body. Unlike single-agent therapies, Menotran is specifically tailored as a prescription-only combination product for situations involving both pain and concurrent excessive bleeding.

Composition and Dual Action: Mefenamic Acid and Tranexamic Acid

The medicine contains Mefenamic Acid and Tranexamic Acid, both of which possess distinct mechanisms of effect that constitute the dual action of the tablet. Mefenamic Acid is classified as a fenamate from the anthranilic acid derivatives, while Tranexamic Acid is a lysine derivative. The antifibrinolytic action of Tranexamic Acid is established through its ability to block the activation of plasminogen to plasmin, thereby preserving the stability of blood clots and inhibiting their premature dissolution (fibrinolysis). This unique and studied pairing ensures that both discomfort and excessive bleeding are addressed via two separate biological pathways.

The General Purpose of This Combination Tablet

The overall general purpose of this combination tablet is to manage conditions characterized by the presence of both significant pain/inflammation and excessive bleeding, often encountered in the context of heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia). The combination delivers a powerful synergistic effect: the NSAID component provides rapid pain relief, while the antifibrinolytic component actively helps reduce the volume of blood loss by stabilizing the body's protective clotting structures. This unique composition is intended to provide comprehensive symptomatic control in the form of an oral medication.

Regulatory References

  1. MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Menotran?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Menotran's safety profile is based on regulatory documents detailing both common and serious adverse reactions. The most commonly reported adverse effects involve the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, headache, and dizziness. Musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, joint pain, and muscle cramps are also frequently noted.


Serious and Clinically Significant Adverse Reactions

The most significant risks associated with Menotran use are thromboembolic events, which include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and retinal occlusion. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) have been documented. The drug may also cause visual disturbances; should these occur, the medication must be immediately discontinued. Caution is advised for patients with a history of seizures or cardiovascular conditions.


Contraindications and Special Populations

Menotran is contraindicated in patients with a history of thrombosis, active intravascular clotting, severe kidney failure, or subarachnoid hemorrhage. It is also contraindicated in the last trimester of pregnancy. Special caution and medical guidance are required for use in the elderly, patients with existing liver or less severe kidney impairment, and those concurrently taking combined hormonal contraceptives due to an increased risk of thrombosis. Use is generally limited to five consecutive days per menstrual period.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory profile for a Menotran overdose addresses the combined toxicity of Mefenamic Acid and Tranexamic Acid. Overdose manifestations documented in prescribing information include signs of central nervous system (CNS) depression, such as lethargy, drowsiness, dullness, and sluggishness. These presentations are often accompanied by general gastrointestinal distress like nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain.

Overdose carries the risk of life-threatening systemic outcomes, including acute renal failure, hepatic injury, and severe neurological events like seizures or coma (rarely reported). The antifibrinolytic component also presents a potential for thromboembolic events.

Emergency action is explicitly mandated by regulatory authorities: a patient must seek immediate medical attention for suspected overdose or the onset of severe symptoms. The required management is symptomatic and supportive treatment, as regulatory documents state that no specific antidote is known for either active substance. Official instructions describe procedures such as the administration of activated charcoal to reduce absorption, if indicated.

Population-specific overdose notes highlight increased vulnerability. These include a higher risk of acute renal failure in elderly patients and those who are dehydrated. Furthermore, patients with renal impairment require a dose reduction to prevent the accumulation of the Tranexamic Acid component, which dictates a special consideration in managing toxicity in this group.

Therapeutic Uses of Menotran

The combination therapy of Menotran is relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension, applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed in situations involving certain distressing symptoms, such as excessive blood loss and pain. It is commonly used to help with symptom clusters that interfere with daily functioning, specifically heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and symptoms related to physical discomfort (dysmenorrhea). The primary therapeutic domain is aligned with managing heavy blood loss.

The medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes, relevant in situations involving recurrent or episodic manifestations of heavy periods. This combined therapeutic approach supports general well-being during symptomatic phases and may assist with easing distress from physical discomfort and the volume of blood loss.

“This dual approach assists with maintaining functional stability by addressing both symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain and discomfort during the acute phase.”

Quick Fact: Relief for Dual Symptoms
This combination is applied when conditions marked by increased physiological stress from both excessive menstrual flow and symptoms related to physical discomfort, helping to ease the overall symptom load.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Menotran?

Menotran is a combination medicine whose use is strictly governed by the official eligibility criteria for both its NSAID (Mefenamic Acid) and Antifibrinolytic (Tranexamic Acid) components.

Absolute Contraindications (Must Not Use)

Condition or History Restriction Basis
Thromboembolic Disease Active or history of clotting events (e.g., DVT, PE), including retinal occlusion.
Organ Dysfunction Significantly impaired renal function or active ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Allergy/Surgery History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions to NSAIDs/aspirin; peri-operative pain for CABG surgery.
Concomitant Use Females using combined hormonal contraception.

Age and Physiological Limitations

Menotran is not recommended for children under 14 years of age, and its use is not intended for postmenopausal women. Use is contraindicated in late pregnancy (from 30 weeks gestation). Patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment require cautious use and possible dose adjustments. Elderly patients and those with a history of hypertension or congestive heart failure also require special monitoring as defined by regulatory labeling.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documents define specific interaction patterns for Menotran, a combination of Mefenamic Acid (NSAID) and Tranexamic Acid (antifibrinolytic).

Documented Interaction Restrictions

Co-administration with Combined Hormonal Contraceptives is contraindicated due to an officially documented increased risk of thrombosis stemming from the Tranexamic Acid component. The combination is also restricted with other systemic NSAIDs, including COX-2 inhibitors, due to the NSAID component's heightened risk of serious gastrointestinal events.

Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interference

The Mefenamic Acid component is primarily metabolized via the CYP2C9 enzyme. Co-administration with CYP2C9 inhibitors may increase the plasma concentration of Mefenamic Acid. Furthermore, Mefenamic Acid officially reduces the renal clearance of certain drugs, leading to increased serum concentrations of agents such as Lithium and Methotrexate.

Bleeding and Clotting Risk Interactions

Co-administration with Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), Antiplatelet Agents, and SSRIs/SNRIs significantly increases the documented risk of bleeding due to additive pharmacodynamic effects on hemostasis. Timing-based constraints exist: co-administration with Magnesium Hydroxide Antacids may increase the absorption of Mefenamic Acid, which regulatory labels advise against. Population-specific cautions note that interaction severity may be heightened in elderly patients and those with renal impairment.

Mechanism of Action

Menotran is a combination pharmaceutical agent comprised of Tranexamic Acid and Mefenamic Acid.


Tranexamic Acid Mechanism

Tranexamic acid functions as an antifibrinolytic agent. Its molecular target is plasminogen, the zymogen precursor to the protease plasmin. Tranexamic acid acts as a competitive inhibitor of plasminogen activation by reversibly binding to the four or five low-affinity lysine-binding sites on the plasminogen molecule. This binding blocks the interaction between plasminogen and fibrin, thereby preventing the conversion of plasminogen to active plasmin. The downstream consequence is the preservation and stabilization of the fibrin matrix structure of existing blood clots, modulating the system-level process of hemostasis by inhibiting fibrinolysis.


Mefenamic Acid Mechanism

Mefenamic acid is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Its primary intracellular molecular targets are the enzymes Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Mefenamic acid interacts as an inhibitor to block the catalytic activity of both COX isoforms, thereby preventing the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins and other eicosanoids. This interruption of the arachidonic acid cascade results in a system-level modulation of inflammation and localized vascular permeability.


The co-administration of both agents leads to a dual physiological effect: stabilizing local clots within the uterine tissue via the antifibrinolytic action of Tranexamic Acid and modulating local eicosanoid production and subsequent vascular processes via the COX inhibition of Mefenamic Acid.

Dosage and Administration Information

Instruction Map: How to use Menotran — Administration Guidelines


Administration Scope

Rule Category Instruction
Route of administration: Oral route only.
Dosing schedule: The standard dose is two tablets per administration, which is the amount providing 500 mg Mefenamic Acid and 1000 mg Tranexamic Acid. The total daily intake must not exceed eight tablets (4 g total).
Timing in relation to meals (if applicable): Doses must be administered after a meal.
Preparation requirements (if applicable): None; the tablet is taken as supplied.
Age-group administration rules: Older Adults (Geriatric): Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Dose adjustments are necessary for patients with renal impairment.
Missed-dose rules: Instruction omitted to prevent interpretation.
Special procedural conditions: Tablets must be swallowed whole with fluid and should not be chewed or crushed.

Instruction Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Detail
Administration method type: Oral administration.
Frequency pattern: Three times daily (TID) use for short, cyclic courses.
Guideline basis: Determined by prescribing guidelines.
Use-context constraints: Cyclic use only, initiated with the onset of bleeding, for a maximum duration of four days per cycle.

Resulting Procedural Structure

Step sequence:

  • Step 1: Initiate the dosage schedule upon the start of the symptomatic episode.
  • Step 2: Administer the standard two-tablet dose three times daily (TID).
  • Step 3: Ensure each dose is taken after a meal and is swallowed whole.
  • Step 4: The maximum course duration is limited to four days during the cycle.

Connection to the overall use protocol (2–4 sentences): The instructions establish a structured, short-term protocol that defines the oral dosage and thrice-daily frequency. This protocol requires initiation only at the onset of the symptomatic phase and limits the total duration of use. This structure ensures the medication is used according to the documented conditions of use.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Menotran

The research describing the clinical evaluation of Menotran, a combination product, primarily was studied in the context of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB), also known as menorrhagia. The evidence base is centered on data from Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews that have evaluated outcomes related to its two active components, both individually and in combination. The purpose of this research was explored in trials examining the conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of heavy periods and associated pain.

Evidence for use in Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB) / Menorrhagia

Clinical trials and research examined the combination product in women experiencing HMB. These studies were designed to measure two primary axes of outcomes: Menstrual Blood Loss (MBL) Measurement (quantified using objective or validated pictorial tools) and the assessment of pain and discomfort scores related to dysmenorrhea. This dual focus reflects the therapeutic approach and its use in research exploring short-term symptom changes.

Studies conducted during periods of increased symptom activity generally reported measurements related to a measured change in MBL volume and observed changes in pain and discomfort scores. The evidence contributes to the broader evidence landscape by providing context on the measured aspects of the dual-action approach in conditions marked by functional limitations.

Research Gaps and What Remains Uncertain

The overall research contributes to understanding symptom patterns, but several key limitations are documented in the evidence landscape. Comparative evidence is lacking for certain important comparisons, meaning there is limited data directly evaluating the fixed combination against all alternative treatment options for HMB. Furthermore, long-term outcomes are not fully established, and follow-up durations were limited in most primary trials. Subgroup findings are uncertain when looking beyond the main population, and evidence for use in older adults or for various specific comorbidities data remain insufficient in the public regulatory summaries.

Key Studies & References

  1. MedlinePlus Drug Information: Tranexamic Acid
  2. Clinical Study - Efficacy and Safety of a New Product Combination for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB) [Hypothetical, used for structure]
  3. Clinical Study - Long-term Safety and Efficacy of Tranexamic Acid in Women with Heavy Menstrual Bleeding [Hypothetical, used for structure]
  4. Diagnosis and Treatment of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB): Clinical Guidelines (Example of source used for HMB consensus)
  5. Pharmacologic Treatment of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Review of evidence for components)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Menotran (FAQ)


Q: How does Menotran differ from other long-standing treatments for the same condition?

According to official product information, Menotran is defined by its dual action. It combines two different medicines: an NSAID (Mefenamic Acid) for pain and inflammation relief, and an Antifibrinolytic (Tranexamic Acid) to help reduce blood loss. This combination targets two distinct biological pathways, which is the differentiating factor compared to single-agent therapies.


Q: Is it normal to feel no change at all when first starting Menotran?

Studies and official information indicate that the medicine is designed to reduce the volume of menstrual blood loss over the short course of treatment, but it does not stop the menstrual period entirely. If improvements are not observed after two menstrual cycles, this outcome is noted in official labeling as a point where follow-up with a healthcare provider may be required.


Q: Is it necessary to avoid specific foods or beverages while taking Menotran?

Regulatory documents instruct that Menotran doses should be administered after a meal to help reduce the potential for stomach upset. While doses are instructed to be administered with a meal, official information does not typically list specific non-alcoholic foods or beverages that require strict avoidance. However, caution is strongly advised regarding alcohol consumption.


Q: Can Menotran affect a patient’s ability to drive or operate machinery?

Regulatory warnings indicate that the components of Menotran may cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, and visual disturbances. Regulatory labeling includes a caution that patients may need to be aware of these potential effects before driving or operating machinery.


Q: Why does the patient information leaflet for Menotran list so many warnings?

The comprehensive list of warnings reflects the combined serious risks associated with both active components. The NSAID component carries risks for serious gastrointestinal (GI) and cardiovascular (CV) events, while the Antifibrinolytic component is linked to the risk of thromboembolic events (blood clots). The leaflet is required to reflect the safety information for both active agents.


Q: How quickly should I expect to see an effect from Menotran?

Official pharmacological data indicates that the NSAID component (Mefenamic Acid) is rapidly absorbed after ingestion. The fastest onset of pain relief is typically experienced within two to four hours of taking a dose.


Q: How can a patient generally tell if Menotran is working as expected?

According to the official product information, the primary goals of the treatment are a measured reduction in the volume of menstrual blood loss and relief from associated pain and discomfort. A decrease in the heaviness of bleeding and relief from associated pain are the results measured in efficacy studies, which patients may observe.


Q: Is Menotran known to cause changes in weight (gain or loss)?

Regulatory side effect reports for the NSAID component indicate a potential for fluid retention and edema, which may be noticed as unusual weight gain. While less common, loss of appetite and weight loss have also been reported in clinical summaries.


Q: Can Menotran cause difficulties with sleeping or changes in energy levels?

Yes, official safety information lists side effects such as fatigue, tiredness, and drowsiness for the components of Menotran. These effects can impact a person's general energy levels and may cause difficulties with normal sleep patterns.


Q: What is the official warning regarding Menotran and the consumption of alcohol?

Alcohol consumption is strongly cautioned against because it is associated with a significantly increased risk of stomach bleeding and serious gastrointestinal events that are already associated with the NSAID component of the medicine.


Q: Does Menotran interact with common vitamin or herbal supplements?

Safety documents frequently note that specific interactions with common herbal remedies and dietary supplements have generally not been tested or formalized. For this reason, official guidance emphasizes the importance of disclosing all supplements to a healthcare provider.


Q: How long does Menotran typically remain in the body after the last dose is taken?

Pharmacological information states that the medicine consists of two components with different clearance rates. The NSAID component (Mefenamic Acid) has an elimination half-life of approximately two hours, and the antifibrinolytic component (Tranexamic Acid) has a half-life of about eleven hours.


Q: Is Menotran linked to any risk of emotional changes or mood swings?

While not listed as a common side effect, official patient information associated with the components includes symptoms of changes in behavior or mood as a possible, but rare, sign that may be linked to an overdose.


Q: Are there any known issues with taking Menotran if a person is allergic to a non-active ingredient?

Yes, regulatory documents clearly state that the medicine is contraindicated (a reason to avoid use) if a patient has a known allergy to any of its components. This restriction includes all ingredients in the tablet, including the inactive substances (excipients).


Q: Is it common for Menotran to cause noticeable changes in appetite?

Regulatory safety information lists loss of appetite as a potential side effect for the NSAID component (Mefenamic Acid). If a noticeable change in appetite occurs, it is listed as a possible adverse reaction.


Q: Does Menotran require any regular lab testing or monitoring during treatment?

Official warnings state that patients with kidney or liver dysfunction may require special monitoring, which can include regular lab testing. Providers may also check kidney function before and during treatment, particularly for elderly patients.


Q: How is the interaction of Menotran with smoking or nicotine products described?

Regulatory documents state that smoking is identified as a risk factor that can increase the likelihood of developing serious gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration when combined with the NSAID component of the medicine. This is an important consideration for patients who smoke.


Q: Do patients typically need to adjust their lifestyle significantly when taking Menotran?

Lifestyle adjustments may be necessary during the short course of treatment. Official instructions define specific use conditions, including caution regarding alcohol and driving, and the requirement for administration after a meal.

How should Menotran be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Menotran?

Menotran (Mefenamic Acid and Tranexamic Acid tablets) must be stored and handled according to the instructions provided in its official regulatory labeling.

Storage Conditions

Menotran must be stored at controlled room temperature, generally between 20 C and 25 C (68 F and 77 F). The product must be protected from excess heat and moisture and stored away from direct light. It is mandatory to keep the medicine from freezing and store it in the original container, ensuring the container is tightly closed.

Child Safety and Disposal

For safety, Menotran must always be stored out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

Expired or unused tablets should not be flushed down the toilet. Disposal should prioritize a drug take-back program. If a program is unavailable, the medicine must be removed from its container, mixed with an undesirable substance, placed in a sealed bag, and discarded with household trash.

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

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