[.
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Action/Kinetics:
Peak plasma levels: 30-60 min.
t
1/2: 2-3.3 hr. Peak anti-inflammatory activity may not be observed for 2-3 weeks. Excreted through urine and feces.
Uses:
Acute and chronic rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Not indicated as the initial drug for rheumatoid arthritis due to GI side effects. Has been used in combination with gold salts or corticosteroids. Mild to moderate pain. Primary dysmenorrhea, excessive menstrual blood loss.
Investigational: Sunburn, prophylaxis of migraine, migraine due to menses.
Additional Contraindications:
Use during pregnancy, lactation, or in children less than 14 years of age.
Special Concerns:
Safe use during lactation not established. Safety and efficacy not established in functional class IV rheumatoid arthritis.
Additional Side Effects:
Severe diarrhea, nausea, headache, rash, dermatitis, abdominal pain, pyrosis, flatulence, malaise, fatigue, paresthesia, insomnia, depression, taste disturbances, nocturia, blood loss (through feces: 2 mL/day).
Laboratory Test Alterations:
Serum transaminase, alkaline phosphatase; rarely,
serum creatinine or BUN.
Drug Interactions:
-
Aspirin /
Plasma levels of meclofenamate
-
Warfarin /
Effect of warfarin
How Supplied:
Capsule: 50 mg, 100 mg
Dosage
?Capsules
Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis.
Adults, usual: 200-400 mg/day in three to four equal doses. Initiate at lower dose and increase to maximum of 400 mg/day if necessary. After initial satisfactory response, lower dosage to decrease severity of side effects.
Mild to moderate pain.
Adults: 50 mg q 4-6 hr (100 mg may be required in some clients), not to exceed 400 mg/day.
Excessive menstrual blood loss and primary dysmenorrhea.
Adults: 100 mg t.i.d. for up to 6 days, starting at the onset of menses.
