What is "mefenamic acid"

n. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat pain, including menstrual pain.

n. a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug (trade name Ponstel) used to treat mild pain (especially menstrual cramps) [syn: Ponstel]

Mefenamic acid is a member of the anthranilic acid derivatives (or fenamate) class of NSAID drugs, and is used to treat mild to moderate pain, including menstrual pain, and is sometimes used to prevent migraines associated with menstruation. It is not widely used due to its side effects.

Its name derives from its systematic name, dimethylphenylaminobenzoic acid. It was discovered and brought to market by Parke-Davis in the 1960s under brandnames Ponstan, Ponstan Forte, Ponalar, Ponstyl, and Ponstel. It became generic in the 1980s and is available worldwide under many brand names. As of 2015 the cost for a typical course of medication in the United States is more than 200 USD.